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 C
Explanation
A) Hispanic ethnicity: While ethnicity can influence the prevalence and risk of hypertension, Hispanic ethnicity alone is not a direct risk factor for hypertension. Other factors such as lifestyle, diet, and genetic predispositions play more significant roles in the development of hypertension.
B) Cholesterol 190 mg/dL: Although elevated cholesterol levels can contribute to cardiovascular disease, a cholesterol level of 190 mg/dL is considered borderline high but not a primary risk factor for hypertension. The risk for hypertension is more directly related to factors like blood pressure levels and weight.
C) BMI of 28: A Body Mass Index (BMI) of 28 falls into the overweight category, which is a known risk factor for developing hypertension. Excess body weight can increase blood pressure by increasing the workload on the heart and contributing to insulin resistance, which can further elevate blood pressure.
D) History of atrial fibrillation: While atrial fibrillation is a significant cardiac condition and can be associated with other cardiovascular risks, it is not a direct risk factor for the development of hypertension. The primary risk factors for hypertension include factors like obesity, diet, and physical inactivity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. "You should limit medications containing aspirin while taking this supplement.": There is no direct interaction between glucosamine and aspirin that requires limiting the use of aspirin. However, glucosamine and aspirin generally do not have a known interaction that would necessitate this precaution.
B. "Notify your provider if you develop tinnitus.": Tinnitus is not a known side effect of glucosamine. This statement would be more relevant for medications such as aspirin or other drugs known to cause tinnitus.
C. "You should increase your daily intake of protein while taking this supplement.": There is no specific requirement to increase protein intake when taking glucosamine. The focus should be on managing osteoarthritis symptoms and following general dietary recommendations rather than specifically increasing protein.
D. "Taking glucosamine can decrease blood glucose levels.": Some studies suggest that glucosamine might influence blood glucose levels, particularly in people with diabetes. This statement is relevant because it highlights the potential impact of glucosamine on glucose metabolism, which is important for clients managing diabetes or blood glucose levels.
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