A nurse in an emergency department is admitting a client who has overdosed on antacids and is in a state of metabolic alkalosis. For which of the following manifestations should the nurse monitor?
Diarrhea
Bradycardia
Tinnitus
Tetany
The Correct Answer is D
A) Diarrhea: Metabolic alkalosis is more likely to be associated with constipation rather than diarrhea. Diarrhea is typically a cause of metabolic acidosis due to the loss of bicarbonate in stool, rather than a result of metabolic alkalosis.
B) Bradycardia: Bradycardia is not a typical manifestation of metabolic alkalosis. Alkalosis can lead to arrhythmias, but it generally does not cause a slow heart rate. Instead, tachycardia might occur as the body compensates for the altered acid-base balance.
C) Tinnitus: Tinnitus is not a common symptom of metabolic alkalosis. It is more often associated with aspirin toxicity or other conditions affecting the auditory system, rather than changes in acid-base balance.
D) Tetany: Tetany is a common manifestation of metabolic alkalosis. The alkalosis causes a decrease in ionized calcium levels, which increases neuromuscular excitability and can lead to muscle cramps, spasms, and tetany. This is a key sign for nurses to monitor as it indicates significant electrolyte disturbances associated with the alkalotic state.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) "You will be allowed to drive yourself home within 6 hours following the procedure."This statement is incorrect. After an esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD), the patient is typically sedated, and the sedation can affect their alertness, coordination, and judgment. It is generally recommended that patients arrange for someone else to drive them home. It is unsafe for the patient to drive themselves after sedation, even if they feel alert. The nurse should instruct the client to have someone accompany them to the procedure and drive them home afterward.
B) "You might experience a hoarse voice for several days following the procedure."This statement is correct. A hoarse voice is a common and expected side effect after an esophagogastroduodenoscopy, as the procedure involves passing a flexible tube (endoscope) through the mouth and throat. The endoscope may cause irritation to the vocal cords or the lining of the throat, leading to a hoarse voice that can last for a few days. This is a normal, transient effect and should be explained to the patient in advance so they are not alarmed.
C) "You can have a clear liquid diet for breakfast prior to the procedure."This statement is incorrect. For most procedures like EGD, patients are typically instructed to fast for at least 6 to 8 hours prior to the procedure to ensure the stomach is empty. Having food or liquids before the procedure may increase the risk of aspiration or interfere with the examination. The nurse should educate the client to follow fasting instructions and avoid consuming any food or liquids, including clear liquids, as per the healthcare provider's guidelines.
D) "You should not take any of your routine medications until after the procedure is complete."
This statement is generally incorrect. Many patients are instructed to continue taking routine medications, especially if they are vital for managing chronic conditions, unless otherwise directed by the healthcare provider. In some cases, medications such as anticoagulants, aspirin, or certain blood pressure medications may need to be withheld temporarily before the procedure. However, the nurse should clarify with the healthcare provider which medications the client should stop or continue taking before the procedure. The patient should not withhold medications on their own without proper guidance.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Maintain the client on bed rest for 48 hr following surgery: While some bed rest is recommended initially post-surgery, maintaining bed rest for 48 hours is excessive and can increase the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis. Early mobilization is generally encouraged to enhance recovery.
B) Check the tubing for kinks and blood clots at least every 2 hr: Regularly checking the catheter tubing for kinks and blood clots is essential to ensure the continuous flow of urine and prevent catheter blockage. This can help in reducing the risk of complications such as bladder distension and urinary retention.
C) Irrigate the client's bladder continuously using 5% dextrose in Ringer's lactate: Continuous bladder irrigation is often done post-TURP to prevent clot formation, but 5% dextrose in Ringer's lactate is not the recommended solution. Typically, normal saline is used to minimize the risk of electrolyte imbalance and maintain the correct osmolarity.
D) Remove the catheter if the client reports severe bladder spasms: Severe bladder spasms can occur post-TURP, but removing the catheter is not the immediate solution. The catheter is necessary for drainage and should be managed with antispasmodic medications or adjusting the irrigation flow rather than removal.
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