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 A
Explanation
A) A client refuses to discuss treatment options with her provider following a terminal diagnosis: This behavior exemplifies denial, the first stage in Kübler-Ross's five stages of grief. In this stage, individuals are unable to accept the reality of their situation, often refusing to acknowledge the facts and avoiding discussions that might confirm the severity of their condition.
B) A client promises a higher power to live a better life if his cancer is healed: This illustrates the bargaining stage, where individuals attempt to negotiate or make deals with a higher power or fate to reverse or delay the loss or illness. They hope that by promising to change their behavior, they can influence the outcome.
C) A client withdraws from his social network following the death of a loved one: Withdrawal from social interactions is indicative of the depression stage, where individuals may feel profound sadness, hopelessness, and a desire to isolate themselves as they process the magnitude of their loss.
D) A client yells at healthcare staff following the death of a loved one: This behavior is characteristic of the anger stage, where individuals express their frustration and helplessness through anger, often directed at people around them, including healthcare providers. This stage reflects the struggle to find meaning and control in the face of loss.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "What are you looking forward to each day?": While asking about daily expectations can provide insight into the client's coping mechanisms and hopefulness, it does not immediately address potential safety concerns. It is a helpful question for assessing the client's adjustment but not the priority if there is a concern about suicidal ideation.
B) "Can you tell me about your sleep patterns?": Sleep patterns are important for understanding overall well-being, especially during grief. However, this question is secondary to addressing the immediate risk of self-harm. Assessing sleep can come after determining if the client is having suicidal thoughts.
C) "Have you ever felt like you don't want to live anymore?": This question is crucial because it directly assesses the client's risk of suicidal ideation or self-harm. Given the client's recent loss and current symptoms, it is important to evaluate if there is a risk to their safety, making this the priority question.
D) "Are you taking any medications at this time?": While it is important to know about the client's medication use, this question does not address the immediate risk of self-harm or assess the psychological impact of the recent loss. Medication information is less urgent compared to evaluating suicidal thoughts.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.