A nurse is caring for a client who has hyperkalemia and is to receive intravenous insulin. Which of the following should the nurse recognize as an adverse outcome?
Serum potassium 4.8 mmol/l
Serum glucose 58 mg/d
Serum sodium 138 mEq/L
Calcium level of 100 mg
The Correct Answer is B
A. Serum potassium 4.8 mmol/L: This is a normal potassium level (3.5–5.0 mmol/L) and indicates successful treatment.
B. Serum glucose 58 mg/dL: IV insulin drives potassium into cells, lowering serum potassium. However, insulin also lowers blood glucose, which can lead to hypoglycemia (glucose <70 mg/dL). Hypoglycemia is the primary adverse effect of IV insulin therapy.
C. Serum sodium 138 mEq/L: This is a normal sodium level (135–145 mEq/L) and not an adverse effect.
D. Calcium level of 100 mg: Calcium is not directly affected by IV insulin therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Milk and organ meats. These foods do not contain excessive sodium.
B. Cheese, lunch meats, and canned vegetables: These foods are high in sodium, which can worsen hypernatremia by increasing serum sodium levels. Processed meats and canned vegetables contain excess salt and preservatives.
C. Alcohol and fried foods. Alcohol can cause dehydration, but not necessarily high sodium levels.
D. Green leafy vegetables and salt substitutes. Green leafy vegetables are low in sodium, and some salt substitutes contain potassium, not sodium.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "We'll find out if any medications, such as steroids, are interfering with your kidney function." Some medications affect kidney function, but creatinine primarily measures kidney efficiency, not drug interactions.
B. "This test will tell your doctor how your kidneys are functioning." Serum creatinine is a key indicator of kidney function. It measures how well the kidneys are filtering waste products.
C. "This test will tell if you have severe renal impairment or disease." Creatinine can be elevated in mild, moderate, or severe kidney dysfunction, not just in severe disease.
D. "You'll have to ask your doctor." The nurse should provide basic health education to the client.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.