A nurse is caring for a 44-year-old client who was admitted with an elevated temperature and abdominal pain.
Exhibits
Select the top 4 client findings that requires immediate follow up.
Potassium 7.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L)
WBC count 17,000/mm3 (Normal Finding: 5,000 to 10,000/mm3)
Crackles throughout lungs
Creatinine 3.0 mg/dL (0.5 to 1.3 mg/dL)
Abdomen rigid with decreased bowel sounds
Glucose 250 mg/dL
No dialysis for 24 hr
Hemoglobin 10 g/dL (12 to 18 g/dL) Nausea
Correct Answer : A,B,C,H
A. Potassium 7.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L): Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and are especially concerning in clients with chronic kidney disease who are at risk of renal complications. Immediate follow-up is crucial to prevent severe cardiac effects.
B. WBC count 17,000/mm³ (Normal Finding: 5,000 to 10,000/mm³): An elevated WBC count indicates an infection or inflammation, which is concerning given the client’s symptoms and temperature. This finding requires immediate follow-up to address potential infection.
C. Crackles throughout lungs: Crackles may indicate fluid overload or pulmonary edema, particularly in clients with chronic kidney disease. This could be a sign of worsening renal function or heart failure, which requires prompt attention.
H. No dialysis for 24 hr: Missing dialysis sessions in a client with stage IV chronic kidney disease can lead to dangerous fluid and electrolyte imbalances. This finding requires immediate action to prevent complications related to renal failure.
Explanation of Incorrect Options:
E. Creatinine 3.0 mg/dL (0.5 to 1.3 mg/dL): While elevated creatinine levels are concerning, the client’s history of chronic kidney disease means this level is expected to be higher. However, it is not as immediately critical as the other findings.
F. Abdomen rigid with decreased bowel sounds: This may suggest abdominal complications but is not as immediately critical as issues related to hyperkalemia or infection.
G. Glucose 250 mg/dL: Elevated glucose levels are concerning but less immediately critical compared to severe electrolyte imbalances and potential infections.
H. Hemoglobin 10 g/dL (12 to 18 g/dL): Anemia is a concern but is not as urgent as the immediate risks posed by elevated potassium, signs of infection, or missed dialysis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. An HbA1c of 8.5% indicates poor glycemic control and higher average blood glucose levels over the past 2 to 3 months. This value is above the recommended target for most individuals with diabetes.
B. An HbA1c of 6.3% reflects good glucose control and is generally within the target range for many individuals with diabetes, typically aiming for below 7%.
C. An HbA1c of 7.8% indicates that the client’s glucose levels are higher than the recommended target but not as poor as 8.5%. It suggests that glucose control could be improved.
D. An HbA1c of 10% is indicative of very poor glucose control and requires significant adjustment in diabetes management.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Lowering the height of the solution container will slow the rate of instillation, reducing the intensity of the cramps and allowing the client to tolerate the enema better.
B. Encouraging the client to bear down may increase discomfort and is not recommended during the administration of an enema.
C. Allowing the client to expel some fluid before continuing might provide temporary relief but does not address the rate of fluid instillation, which is the primary cause of cramping.
D. Stopping the enema and documenting the intolerance is not the first step; adjusting the rate of administration should be tried first to help the client tolerate the procedure.
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