A nurse is assessing a client who has an electrolyte imbalance with an elevated total calcium level of 12.8 mg/dL. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?
Hyperreflexia
Diarrhea
Muscle twitching
Lethargy
The Correct Answer is D
A) Hyperreflexia:
Hyperreflexia is typically associated with low calcium levels (hypocalcemia), not elevated levels. An elevated calcium level often results in reduced neuromuscular excitability, leading to diminished reflexes rather than heightened ones.
B) Diarrhea:
Elevated calcium levels are more likely to cause constipation rather than diarrhea. Hypercalcemia often slows gastrointestinal motility, which can lead to decreased bowel movements and constipation.
C) Muscle twitching:
Muscle twitching is generally a symptom of hypocalcemia rather than hypercalcemia. Elevated calcium levels tend to depress neuromuscular activity, making muscle twitching less likely.
D) Lethargy:
Lethargy is a common symptom of hypercalcemia. High calcium levels can depress the central nervous system, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, confusion, and lethargy. This makes lethargy a likely finding in a client with an elevated total calcium level.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) "If you experience angina, take a 10-minute rest period, then resume exercise."
It's important for clients to stop exercising immediately and consult a healthcare provider if they experience angina during exercise. Resting and then resuming exercise can be unsafe without medical advice, as angina indicates insufficient blood flow to the heart.
B) "Stop exercising if your heart rate increases by 20 beats per minute from baseline."
An increase in heart rate during exercise is expected, and stopping at a 20 BPM increase may be overly cautious. Clients should be taught to monitor for excessive fatigue or symptoms like dizziness, but a 20 BPM increase alone isn't necessarily a concern.
C) "Limit your exercise to an indoor facility to avoid exposure to the sun."
While excessive sun exposure can be a concern for some individuals, limiting exercise to indoors is unnecessary unless there are specific contraindications. Clients should be encouraged to exercise in environments they enjoy, with appropriate sun protection if outdoors.
D) "Begin by walking half a mile two times a day for the first week."
This recommendation is a reasonable starting point for postoperative exercise. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help improve cardiovascular health gradually. Clients should gradually increase their activity level based on their tolerance and healthcare provider's advice.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Hiccups: Hiccups are not a common adverse effect of lisinopril. While they can be bothersome, they are not typically associated with this medication. Monitoring for more significant side effects is crucial, but hiccups alone are not usually indicative of a serious reaction.
B) Anxiousness: Anxiousness or anxiety is not a typical side effect of lisinopril. While anxiety can occur due to various factors, it is not directly linked to the use of lisinopril. The focus should be on more specific adverse effects related to the medication.
C) Cough: A persistent, dry cough is a well-documented adverse effect of lisinopril. Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors like lisinopril can cause a cough due to the accumulation of bradykinin. This side effect is significant and often leads to discontinuation of the medication.
D) Rhinorrhea: Rhinorrhea, or a runny nose, is not a common adverse effect of lisinopril. Although it can occur with other conditions or medications, it is not specifically associated with ACE inhibitors. Monitoring for more characteristic side effects of lisinopril is important.
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