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 D
Explanation
A) "Limit sodium intake to 3,500 milligrams per day.":
Limiting sodium intake is crucial for managing heart failure to prevent fluid retention and exacerbation of symptoms. However, the recommended limit is typically much lower, around 1,500 to 2,000 milligrams per day, not 3,500 milligrams.
B) "Take ibuprofen for discomfort.":
Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs are not recommended for clients with heart failure as they can cause fluid retention, worsen heart failure symptoms, and increase the risk of kidney problems. Alternatives such as acetaminophen are generally safer for pain relief.
C) "Increase the distance you walk by 100 feet daily, even if you feel fatigued.":
While regular exercise is important, clients with heart failure should not push through fatigue, as overexertion can lead to worsening symptoms. Exercise recommendations should be tailored to the individual's tolerance and should be adjusted based on their energy levels.
D) "Include no more than 2,000 milliliters of fluid intake in 24 hours.":
Restricting fluid intake to 2,000 milliliters per day helps prevent fluid overload, which is critical for managing heart failure. Monitoring and limiting fluid intake can help control symptoms such as edema and shortness of breath.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Maintain the client on bed rest for 48 hr following surgery: While some bed rest is recommended initially post-surgery, maintaining bed rest for 48 hours is excessive and can increase the risk of complications like deep vein thrombosis. Early mobilization is generally encouraged to enhance recovery.
B) Check the tubing for kinks and blood clots at least every 2 hr: Regularly checking the catheter tubing for kinks and blood clots is essential to ensure the continuous flow of urine and prevent catheter blockage. This can help in reducing the risk of complications such as bladder distension and urinary retention.
C) Irrigate the client's bladder continuously using 5% dextrose in Ringer's lactate: Continuous bladder irrigation is often done post-TURP to prevent clot formation, but 5% dextrose in Ringer's lactate is not the recommended solution. Typically, normal saline is used to minimize the risk of electrolyte imbalance and maintain the correct osmolarity.
D) Remove the catheter if the client reports severe bladder spasms: Severe bladder spasms can occur post-TURP, but removing the catheter is not the immediate solution. The catheter is necessary for drainage and should be managed with antispasmodic medications or adjusting the irrigation flow rather than removal.
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