A nurse assesses a patient who is prescribed a medication that inhibits aldosterone secretion and release. For which potential complications will the nurse assess? (Select all that apply.)
Serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L
Urine output of 1 200 mL in the last 2 hours
Blood osmolality of 250 mOsm/kg (250 mmol/kg)
Urine output of 25 mL/hr
Serum potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L:
Correct Answer : A,D,E
A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, which is a potential complication of inhibiting aldosterone secretion and release. Aldosterone plays a key role in potassium regulation in the body by promoting potassium excretion in the kidneys. When aldosterone secretion is inhibited, potassium excretion decreases, leading to an accumulation of potassium in the bloodstream and resulting in hypokalemia. Symptoms of hypokalemia may include muscle weakness, cramping, irregular heartbeat, and fatigue.
B. Urine output of 1,200 mL in the last 2 hours:
This option does not directly relate to complications of inhibiting aldosterone secretion. A urine output of 1,200 mL in the last 2 hours indicates adequate urine production, which is generally a positive sign. However, in the context of inhibiting aldosterone secretion, the nurse would be more concerned about decreased urine output due to potential renal effects.
C. Blood osmolality of 250 mOsm/kg (250 mmol/kg):
Blood osmolality within the normal range (usually around 275-295 mOsm/kg) is not directly associated with complications of inhibiting aldosterone secretion. Blood osmolality reflects the concentration of solutes in the blood and is regulated by various factors, including water balance, electrolyte levels, and hormonal regulation. Inhibiting aldosterone secretion primarily affects electrolyte balance rather than blood osmolality.
D. Urine output of 25 mL/hr:
A urine output of 25 mL/hr is considered low and may indicate decreased renal perfusion or impaired kidney function. Inhibiting aldosterone secretion can affect renal function and urine output, leading to decreased urine production. Reduced urine output can contribute to fluid and electrolyte imbalances and may be a concern in patients with inhibited aldosterone secretion.
E. Serum potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L:
A serum potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which is another potential complication of inhibiting aldosterone secretion. Aldosterone helps regulate potassium levels by promoting potassium excretion in the kidneys. When aldosterone secretion is inhibited, potassium excretion decreases, leading to an accumulation of potassium in the bloodstream and resulting in hyperkalemia. Symptoms of hyperkalemia may include muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat, nausea, and numbness or tingling.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Evidence-based practice:
Evidence-based practice (EBP) involves integrating the best available evidence from research, clinical expertise, and patient preferences and values to inform nursing practice. In perioperative nursing, EBP is important for making informed decisions about preoperative, intraoperative, and postoperative care protocols. For example, using evidence-based guidelines for surgical site infection prevention, pain management strategies, and postoperative care protocols can improve patient outcomes and safety.
B. Informatics:
Informatics refers to the use of information technology and data management systems to support nursing practice, education, research, and patient care. In perioperative nursing, informatics plays a crucial role in managing electronic health records (EHRs), accessing patient data, documenting care, and communicating with interdisciplinary team members. It also includes utilizing perioperative information systems for surgical scheduling, anesthesia records, and tracking patient progress during surgery.
C. Quality improvement:
Quality improvement (QI) involves systematic processes to monitor, assess, and improve the quality of healthcare services. In perioperative nursing, QI initiatives focus on enhancing patient safety, optimizing surgical outcomes, reducing complications, and improving efficiency in perioperative processes. Nurses participate in QI projects by analyzing data, identifying areas for improvement, implementing evidence-based practices, and evaluating the impact of interventions on patient care and outcomes.
D. Safety:
Safety is a fundamental QSEN competency, particularly critical in perioperative nursing care. Perioperative nurses are responsible for ensuring the safety of patients during all phases of surgery, including preoperative assessment, intraoperative care, and postoperative recovery. This includes measures such as verifying patient identity and surgical site, preventing surgical errors (e.g., wrong-site surgery), maintaining aseptic techniques to prevent infections, preventing falls and injuries, managing anesthesia safely, and adhering to protocols for safe medication administration and equipment use.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A. Morbidly obese patient: Obesity is a known risk factor for VTE due to several reasons. Morbidly obese individuals often have impaired mobility, which can lead to venous stasis (sluggish blood flow in the veins). Additionally, obesity is associated with inflammation and changes in blood clotting factors, increasing the risk of developing blood clots in the veins.
B. A woman who smokes and takes oral contraceptives or smokes: Both smoking and oral contraceptive use are independent risk factors for VTE. Smoking can cause damage to blood vessels and alter blood clotting mechanisms, while oral contraceptives can increase the risk of blood clots due to hormonal changes.
C. Wheelchair-bound patient: While being wheelchair-bound alone may not always indicate a high risk for VTE, immobility is a significant risk factor for developing blood clots. Prolonged periods of immobility can lead to blood stasis in the veins, making wheelchair-bound patients susceptible to VTE, especially if other risk factors are present.
D. Patient with a humerus fracture: A humerus fracture on its own may not necessarily increase the risk of VTE significantly. However, if the fracture requires immobilization or surgery, especially if it affects the lower extremities or leads to prolonged immobility, the risk of VTE can increase due to decreased blood flow and stasis.
E. Patient who underwent a prolonged surgical procedure: Prolonged surgical procedures often involve anesthesia, immobility during surgery, and postoperative immobilization, all of which can contribute to venous stasis and increase the risk of developing VTE. Additionally, the surgical trauma itself can trigger inflammatory responses and alterations in blood clotting factors, further elevating the risk of blood clots.
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