A male client with acute kidney injury (AKI) is scheduled for his first hemodialysis treatment and asks the practical nurse (PN) how the treatments will be evaluated for effectiveness. The PN explains that blood samples will be collected for analysis. Which laboratory value should the PN explain as the best indicator of each hemodialysis?
Elevated potassium.
Decreased calcium.
Lowered hemoglobin.
Decreased creatinine.
The Correct Answer is D
Hemodialysis is a procedure used to remove waste products and excess fluid from the blood when the kidneys are unable to function properly. One of the waste products that accumulate in the blood during kidney dysfunction is creatinine. Creatinine is a byproduct of muscle metabolism, and its levels in the blood are normally regulated and eliminated by the kidneys. In AKI, the kidneys are not able to effectively filter and eliminate creatinine, leading to elevated levels in the blood. Hemodialysis helps to remove excess creatinine from the blood, resulting in decreased creatinine levels.
A- Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) are common in AKI and can be life-threatening. Hemodialysis helps to remove excess potassium from the blood, restoring normal levels.
However, the best indicator of the effectiveness of hemodialysis in managing hyperkalemia would be monitoring the potassium levels before and after the session rather than considering it as the "best" indicator.
B- Decreased calcium levels can occur in kidney dysfunction due to impaired activation of vitamin D and decreased absorption of calcium from the intestines. While hemodialysis can help restore calcium levels, it may not be the primary laboratory value used to evaluate the effectiveness of each session.
C- Lowered hemoglobin levels can be seen in AKI due to various factors, including decreased production of red blood cells and blood loss. Hemodialysis can help remove waste products and excess fluid, but it may not directly address the underlying causes of lowered hemoglobin levels.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Instructing the UAP in the correct removal of contaminated gloves focuses only on one aspect of the PPE removal process. While it is important to remove gloves correctly to prevent contamination, this choice does not address the comprehensive handling of all isolation attire. Proper PPE removal involves multiple steps, including the removal of gowns, masks, and gloves in a specific order to minimize the risk of contamination.
Choice B reason:
Reminding the UAP to remove the gown before removing gloves addresses part of the PPE removal process but not the entire procedure. The correct sequence for removing PPE is crucial to prevent self-contamination. However, this choice does not ensure that all steps are followed correctly. The PN needs to confirm that the UAP understands and correctly performs the entire process, not just one step.
Choice C reason:
Advising the UAP to remove the mask after exiting the room is incorrect because masks should be removed before leaving the isolation room to prevent contamination of the environment outside the isolation area. Droplet precautions require that masks be removed inside the room to contain any infectious agents within the isolation area. This choice could lead to the spread of infection if not followed correctly.
Choice D reason:
Confirming that the UAP has correctly handled the isolation attire ensures that all steps in the PPE removal process are followed correctly. This comprehensive approach helps maintain infection control standards and prevents the spread of infectious agents. By verifying that the UAP has correctly removed and disposed of all PPE, the PN ensures that the UAP adheres to proper protocols, thereby protecting both the healthcare workers and other clients.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The best action for the practical nurse (PN) to assist the client in dealing with his pain would be to guide the client through slow, rhythmic breathing.
Guiding the client through slow, rhythmic breathing techniques can help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can indirectly contribute to pain relief. Deep breathing exercises can help the client focus on their breath and divert attention away from the pain, providing some relief and helping them cope with the discomfort. It is a non-pharmacological intervention that can be implemented immediately to help the client manage their pain.
The other options are less effective or not appropriate in this situation:
A. Dimming the lights in the room and closing the door may create a more calming environment, but it does not directly address the client's pain or provide them with effective pain relief.
B. Turning the television on to the client's favorite show may serve as a distraction, but it may not be sufficient to alleviate the client's pain.
D. Obtaining a prescription for a higher dose of pain medication should only be considered after evaluating the client's current pain management regimen and assessing their response to the current medication. It is not the immediate best action to take without further assessment and consideration of other non-pharmacological interventions.
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