A male presents to the emergency department with confusion, lethargy, and a decreased level of consciousness. His friends report that he ingested a large quantity of unknown pills in a suicide attempt. Laboratory results reveal severe metabolic acidosis, high anion gap, and elevated serum creatinine. Which of the following is the most urgent indication for initiating dialysis in this patient?
Overdose
Chronic Kidney Disease
Hypertension
Dehydration
The Correct Answer is A
A. Overdose: The patient has ingested a large quantity of unknown pills, leading to severe metabolic acidosis, high anion gap, and possible toxic accumulation. Dialysis is often indicated to clear toxins in the case of overdose, especially if renal function is impaired (as indicated by elevated creatinine).
B. Chronic Kidney Disease: While chronic kidney disease may eventually require dialysis, the acute overdose and metabolic acidosis are the more immediate concerns requiring urgent dialysis.
C. Hypertension: Hypertension may require management, but it is not the primary reason to initiate urgent dialysis in this scenario. The overdose and metabolic acidosis take precedence.
D. Dehydration: Dehydration alone does not necessitate dialysis. However, the overdose, metabolic acidosis, and renal impairment are the critical reasons for initiating dialysis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. I should avoid alcohol completely to prevent another episode of pancreatitis: This is correct advice, as alcohol is a common cause of pancreatitis and should be avoided.
B. I can resume my high-fat diet once my symptoms improve. A high-fat diet can trigger another episode of pancreatitis, as fat stimulates pancreatic enzymes that can exacerbate the condition. The patient should follow a low-fat diet.
C. I should take my prescribed medications as directed to manage my symptoms: This statement is appropriate and reflects adherence to the treatment plan.
D. I need to follow up with my healthcare provider regularly to monitor my condition: This is also correct, as regular monitoring is essential to managing pancreatitis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Social drinking of alcohol: While excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the stomach lining, social drinking is not as strongly associated with peptic ulcer disease as NSAID use.
B. Diet high in fiber and vegetables: A diet high in fiber and vegetables is generally protective against gastrointestinal issues and is not associated with an increased risk of PUD.
C. Frequent use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): NSAIDs are one of the most common causes of peptic ulcers. They can damage the stomach lining and increase acid production, leading to ulcers.
D. History of seasonal allergies: Seasonal allergies have no direct link to the development of peptic ulcers and are not a risk factor for PUD.
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