A client’s bloodwork indicates that he has severe hypokalemia.
What is a priority nursing intervention?

Place the client on a cardiac monitor.

Administer a laxative as ordered.

Place the client on seizure precautions.

Restrict high potassium foods.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

This is because hypokalemia (low potassium level in the blood) can cause abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmia) that can be life-threatening and require urgent medical attention. A cardiac monitor can help detect and treat any arrhythmia that may occur.

Choice B is wrong because administering a laxative can worsen hypokalemia by causing more potassium loss through the digestive tract. Laxative use is one of the possible causes of hypokalemia.

Choice C is wrong because placing the client on seizure precautions is not a priority intervention for hypokalemia. Seizures are not a common symptom of hypokalemia, although muscle weakness and cramps may occur.

Choice D is wrong because restricting high potassium foods is not a priority intervention for hypokalemia. In fact, increasing potassium intake through foods or supplements may be helpful in less serious cases of hypokalemia. However, this should be done according to the doctor’s recommendation and with careful monitoring of blood potassium levels.

Normal blood potassium levels for an adult range from 3.6 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). A very low potassium level (less than 2.5 mmol/L) can be life threatening.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

This type of anemia is caused by the reduced absorption of vitamin B12 in the small intestine after gastric bypass surgery. Vitamin B12 is needed for the production of healthy red blood cells and nerve function. The symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency anemia include sore tongue, tingling in the fingers, and balance problems.

Choice A is wrong because folic acid deficiency anemia is caused by the lack of folic acid in the diet or increased demand for folic acid, such as during pregnancy.

Folic acid is also needed for red blood cell production, but it does not cause nerve symptoms.

Choice B is wrong because aplastic anemia is caused by the failure of the bone marrow to produce enough blood cells.

It is not related to gastric bypass surgery or nutrient deficiency. It can be caused by infections, drugs, radiation, or autoimmune diseases.

Choice D is wrong because acquired anemia is a general term for any type of anemia that is not inherited or present at birth.

It can have many causes, such as blood loss, infection, inflammation, or chronic disease.

It does not specify the type of anemia or the underlying mechanism. Normal ranges for hemoglobin are 13.5 to 17.5 g/dL for men and 12 to 15.5 g/dL for women. Normal ranges for vitamin B12 are 200 to 900 pg/mL.

A. Protecting the client’s bones with strict bedrest. B. Providing the client with assisted range of motion exercises twice daily. C. Decreasing the amount of calcium in the client’s diet. D. Increasing regular weight-bearing activities.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Increasing regular weight-bearing activities can help prevent osteoporosis by stimulating bone formation and improving muscle strength. Weight-bearing activities are those that make your bones and muscles work against gravity, such as walking, jogging, dancing, or lifting weights.

Choice A is wrong because protecting the client’s bones with strict bedrest can actually increase the risk of osteoporosis by reducing bone density and muscle mass. Bedrest should be avoided unless medically necessary.

Choice B is wrong because providing the client with assisted range of motion exercises twice daily is not enough to prevent osteoporosis. While these exercises can help maintain joint mobility and flexibility, they are not weight bearing and do not stimulate bone formation.

Choice C is wrong because decreasing the amount of calcium in the client’s diet can also increase the risk of osteoporosis. Calcium is an essential mineral for bone health and adults need 700mg a day, which can be obtained from foods such as dairy products, leafy green vegetables, tofu, and dried fruit. Vitamin D is also important for bone health as it helps the body absorb calcium.

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A client’s bloodwork indicates that he has severe hypokalemia. What is a priority nursing intervention?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A client who is at risk for developing osteoporosis asks what can be done to decrease the risk of actually developing the disorder. Which intervention would be the most beneficial for this client?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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A client’s bloodwork indicates that he has severe hypokalemia.
What is a priority nursing intervention?