A nurse is caring for a client who has an electrolyte imbalance with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. Which of the following should the nurse administer?
A potassium supplement
A fiber supplement
An anticonvulsant
A diuretic
The Correct Answer is D
A) A potassium supplement: Administering a potassium supplement would be inappropriate for a client with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. This level is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hyperkalemia, which can have serious effects on cardiac function. Increasing potassium intake could exacerbate the condition.
B) A fiber supplement: While fiber supplements can be beneficial for overall digestive health, they do not directly address or correct an electrolyte imbalance like hyperkalemia. They are not relevant in managing elevated potassium levels.
C) An anticonvulsant: Anticonvulsants are used to manage seizure activity and are not indicated for treating hyperkalemia. They do not have any role in the regulation or management of potassium levels in the body.
D) A diuretic: Diuretics, particularly loop diuretics, are often used to help manage hyperkalemia by promoting the excretion of potassium through urine. This helps lower the elevated potassium levels in the blood and reduce the risk of complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, administering a diuretic is an appropriate intervention for a client with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Help the client role play alternative solutions to identified problems: Role-playing can be a highly effective intervention for clients with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It allows clients to practice and develop problem-solving skills in a safe and supportive environment. By simulating different scenarios, clients can explore various responses and coping mechanisms, which can help reduce anxiety by increasing their confidence and preparedness for real-life situations.
B) Have the client write a list of personal characteristics they feel need improvement: This approach may inadvertently increase a client's anxiety by focusing on perceived personal shortcomings. It is more beneficial to focus on strengths and positive attributes to build self-esteem and resilience. Encouraging self-criticism can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and contribute to a negative self-concept.
C) Give the client detailed instructions when providing teaching about ways to cope: While providing information is important, detailed instructions can sometimes overwhelm clients with GAD, leading to increased anxiety. It is more effective to offer clear, concise, and manageable steps and to ensure that the client fully understands and feels comfortable with each coping strategy before moving on to the next one.
D) Give the client an alternative interpretation of the client's perception of a situation: Offering alternative interpretations can be helpful, but it must be done cautiously. Clients with GAD may feel invalidated if their perceptions are dismissed or challenged too directly. It is more supportive to guide clients to explore and consider different perspectives on their own, fostering a sense of autonomy and self-efficacy in managing their anxiety.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) It manifests as a sense of relief upon the loved one's death: This describes a possible outcome of anticipatory grief but does not define anticipatory grief itself. While relief can be a reaction, it is not the core characteristic of anticipatory grief.
B) It causes a prolonged grief response to occur: Anticipatory grief involves experiencing grief before the actual loss occurs. This process can sometimes lead to a prolonged grief response, as individuals might go through stages of grief before and after the loss.
C) It occurs when the loss of a loved one cannot be shared openly: This describes disenfranchised grief, which happens when the loss is not socially acknowledged or supported. Anticipatory grief occurs prior to the loss, not due to a lack of social support.
D) It remains difficult to process due to a lack of finality: While anticipatory grief can be challenging due to ongoing uncertainties and emotional strain, it is not primarily defined by a lack of finality. The grief occurs as individuals anticipate the impending loss.
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