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:

Instructing the client to bring all medications, supplements, and herbs currently being taken to the next clinic appointment (Choice A) is the best course of action. This allows the healthcare provider to review the client's entire medication regimen, identify any potential interactions or duplications, and make appropriate adjustments. It promotes medication safety and ensures that the client receives the most effective and safe treatment.

Choice B rationale:

Using a medication reminder system (Choice B) is a helpful suggestion but does not address the issue of potential duplications or interactions between medications. While a reminder system can improve adherence, it does not provide a comprehensive solution to the problem of multiple prescriptions for the same indication.

Choice C rationale:

Making certain a family member knows the name and use of all medications currently being taken (Choice C) is a useful practice for medication safety but may not be sufficient to address the issue of multiple prescriptions. Relying solely on a family member's knowledge may lead to misunderstandings or omissions in the medication regimen.

Choice D rationale:

Do not take any over-the-counter drugs while taking medications prescribed by a healthcare provider (Choice D) is a relevant piece of advice for medication safety. However, it does not directly address the issue of multiple prescriptions for the same indication. It is essential for the client to have a complete and accurate record of all medications, both prescribed and over-the-counter, to ensure safe and effective treatment.

A. Apply gloves and empty the drainage bag B. Remove the looped tubing from the bed C. Measure the urinary output in the bag D. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

The correct answer is choice d. Attach the drainage bag to the bed frame.

Choice A rationale:

Applying gloves and emptying the drainage bag is not the immediate priority. The drainage bag should not be allowed to overfill, but in this scenario, it is only half-full.

Choice B rationale:

Removing the looped tubing from the bed is important to ensure proper drainage and prevent backflow, but it does not address the incorrect placement of the drainage bag.

Choice C rationale:

Measuring the urinary output in the bag is a routine task but does not correct the improper placement of the drainage bag.

Choice D rationale:

Attaching the drainage bag to the bed frame is the correct action. The drainage bag should be kept below the level of the bladder and attached to a non-movable part of the bed to prevent backflow and reduce the risk of infection.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

When performing a focused gastrointestinal system assessment, the practical nurse (PN) asks a male client when his last bowel movement occurred. The client answers, "Three days ago." Which action should the PN implement first?

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