A nurse is caring for a client who has acute dehydration and is receiving IV fluids.
Which of the following laboratory values indicates to the nurse that the current treatment regimen is effective?
Sodium 165 mEq/L
Hematocrit 62.5
Urine specific gravity 1.020
D. Potassium 3.2 mEq/L
D. Potassium 3.2 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
A sodium level of 165 mEq/L is higher than the normal range and could indicate that the body is still dehydrated.
Choice B rationale
A hematocrit of 62.5 is higher than the normal range and could suggest that the body is still dehydrated.
Choice C rationale
A urine specific gravity of 1.020 is within the normal range and suggests that the body is rehydrating effectively.
Choice D rationale
A potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L is lower than the normal range and could suggest that the body’s electrolyte balance has not yet been restored.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Hypotension: Frequent vomiting and diarrhea can cause dehydration, which can lead to hypotension.
B. Bradycardia: Bradycardia is not typically a symptom of dehydration caused by vomiting and diarrhea.
C. Pale yellow urine: Dehydration can cause urine to become concentrated, resulting in a darker color, not pale yellow.
D. Poor skin turgor: Dehydration can cause poor skin turgor, which is skin that lacks elasticity.
E. Flat neck veins: Dehydration can cause flat neck veins when the patient is lying supine.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hyperactive reflexes are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood, can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, constipation, and arrhythmia.
Choice B rationale
Extreme thirst is not a typical symptom of hypokalemia. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as diabetes.
Choice C rationale
A weak, irregular pulse is a common symptom of hypokalemia. Low levels of potassium can affect heart function, leading to abnormal heart rhythms.
Choice D rationale
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. In fact, constipation is a common symptom of this condition.
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