A nurse is caring for a client who has acute kidney injury and a potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L). Which of the following electrocardiogram (ECG) changes should the nurse expect?
Prominent P waves
Narrowed QRS complexes
Shortened PR intervals
Peaked T waves
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Prominent P waves: Hyperkalemia typically causes a decrease in P wave amplitude and can eventually lead to their disappearance, rather than making them more prominent. Prominent P waves are not characteristic of elevated potassium levels.
B. Narrowed QRS complexes: Hyperkalemia often leads to a widening, not narrowing, of the QRS complex as potassium levels rise. A narrowed QRS complex is not a hallmark finding in clients with elevated potassium.
C. Shortened PR intervals: Hyperkalemia is more commonly associated with prolonged PR intervals. A shortened PR interval is not typically seen in potassium imbalance and would be more relevant in other conduction abnormalities.
D. Peaked T waves: Tall, peaked T waves are the classic early ECG finding in hyperkalemia. They result from increased potassium altering myocardial repolarization and are often the first electrocardiographic sign of elevated serum potassium.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["0.5"]
Explanation
Calculation:
Calculate the total desired dose in mg:
Desired dose (mg) = Weight (kg) x Ordered dose (mg/kg)
Desired dose (mg) = 69.9 kg x 0.75 mg/kg
Desired dose (mg) = 52.425 mg
Determine the volume to administer using the available concentration:
Volume to administer (mL) = Desired dose (mg) / Available concentration (mg/mL)
First, find the concentration in mg/mL:
60 mg / 0.6 mL = 100 mg/mL
Now, calculate the volume:
Volume to administer (mL) = 52.425 mg / 100 mg/mL
Volume to administer (mL) = 0.52425 mL
Round the answer to the nearest tenth:
0.52425 mL rounded to the nearest tenth is 0.5 mL.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Give each screw a quarter turn daily using the wrench provided: Clients should never adjust or tighten the halo device screws themselves. Only trained medical professionals should handle adjustments to avoid misalignment or injury to the cervical spine.
B. Apply powder liberally under the chest portion of the halo fixator device: Powder can cake and irritate the skin or lead to moisture buildup, increasing the risk of skin breakdown or infection. The skin under the vest should be kept clean and dry, not powdered.
C. Avoid the use of straws when drinking liquids: Clients can safely use straws to drink fluids while wearing a halo device. There is no contraindication for using a straw, and it may actually make drinking easier.
D. Place a small pillow under the head while lying supine: Using a small pillow supports neck alignment and promotes comfort without compromising the stability of the halo device. This is an appropriate and recommended practice during rest.
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