A nurse is assessing a client admitted to a health care facility with nausea, vomiting. and abdominal cramps and distention. Which test result is most significant?
Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 29 mg/dl
Serum sodium level of 132 mEq/L
Urine specific gravity of 1.025
Serum potassium level of 3 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is D
A. A BUN of 29 mg/dL is slightly elevated and may suggest dehydration, but it is not the most immediately critical finding.
B. A sodium level of 132 mEq/L is mildly hyponatremic but not acutely life-threatening in most cases.
C. A urine specific gravity of 1.025 is within the normal range (1.010–1.030) and not alarming on its own.
D. A serum potassium level of 3 mEq/L is hypokalemic and clinically significant, especially in a client with vomiting. Low potassium can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness, making it the most urgent value to address.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Metabolic alkalosis is not a direct result of third spacing and is more often associated with vomiting or diuretic use.
B. Hypermagnesemia occurs with excessive intake or renal failure, not third spacing.
C. Hypercalcemia is unrelated to fluid shifts associated with burns.
D. Hypovolemia is the correct answer. Third spacing occurs when fluid shifts from the intravascular space to interstitial or "third" spaces, leading to a decrease in circulating blood volume despite normal or increased total body fluid — causing signs of hypovolemia such as hypotension, tachycardia, and decreased urine output.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Finishing antibiotics is important to prevent resistance, but not directly related to preventing drug-induced hepatitis.
B. Adhering to dosing recommendations of over-the-counter analgesics, especially acetaminophen, is critical to prevent liver toxicity and drug-induced hepatitis.
C. Proper disposal of expired medications is important but does not prevent drug-induced hepatitis.
D. Pharmacist review helps prevent interactions but is secondary to safe dosing practices in preventing hepatotoxicity.
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