A client with intestinal obstruction has a nasogastric tube to low intermittent suction and is receiving an intravenous (IV) infusion of lactated Ringer's at 100 mL/hour.
Which finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider? Reference Range: Potassium (3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L).

24-hour intake at the current infusion rate.

Serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L (3.1 mmol/L).

Gastric output of 900 mL in the last 24 hours.

Increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN).

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:

Reporting the 24-hour intake at the current infusion rate is not the most important finding to report to the healthcare provider in this case. It is essential to monitor intake and output, but a single report of the 24-hour intake is not as critical as other findings.

Choice B rationale:

Reporting a serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L (3.1 mmol/L) is the most important finding to report to the healthcare provider. The patient's potassium level is below the normal range, indicating hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can have serious cardiac and neuromuscular effects, including arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Prompt intervention, such as potassium supplementation or adjustment of IV fluids, is necessary to address this potentially life-threatening condition.

Choice C rationale:

Reporting a gastric output of 900 mL in the last 24 hours is significant and should be reported to the healthcare provider, but it is not as urgent as the low potassium level. Gastric output should be monitored to assess for signs of improvement or worsening, but hypokalemia takes precedence due to its immediate health risks.

Choice D rationale:

Reporting an increased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is important for the overall assessment of the patient's renal function but is not the most critical finding in this scenario. The low potassium level is a more immediate concern and requires immediate attention.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

The client's statement, "I should avoid foods that are high in vitamin K," indicates an understanding of the medication. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Consistent intake of vitamin K-containing foods helps maintain a stable INR (International Normalized Ratio) and warfarin's effectiveness. Clients on warfarin should be educated about avoiding drastic changes in their vitamin K intake.

Choice B rationale:

Taking warfarin with food or on an empty stomach doesn't significantly impact its efficacy. Therefore, this statement is not indicative of the client's understanding of the medication.

Choice C rationale:

The statement "I should report any unusual bleeding or bruising to my provider" is important but doesn't specifically reflect an understanding of warfarin. It's a general caution for anyone taking anticoagulants.

Choice D rationale:

While it's important to avoid excessive use of medications like aspirin that can increase the risk of bleeding, this statement doesn't directly demonstrate an understanding of warfarin itself.

A. Avocados and cheese. B. Fresh fruits. C. Yogurt or buttermilk. D. Green leafy vegetables. E. Green leafy vegetables.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

Avocados and cheese are not specifically recommended for a client with a postoperative wound infection. While a balanced diet is important for overall health, yogurt or buttermilk is a better choice due to their probiotic content, which may promote gut health and support the immune system.

Choice B rationale:

Fresh fruits are generally a healthy dietary choice, but they are not particularly relevant to the management of a postoperative wound infection. The emphasis for this client should be on foods that support wound healing and immune function, such as yogurt or buttermilk.

Choice D rationale:

Green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins and minerals, but they are not a primary focus for a client with a postoperative wound infection. Again, the emphasis should be on foods that support the immune system and overall recovery, such as yogurt or buttermilk.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A client who has atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin therapy. Which of the following statements by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The healthcare provider prescribes the antibiotic cefdinir 300 mg by mouth every 12 hours for a client with a postoperative wound infection. Which foods should the nurse encourage this client to eat?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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