A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing acute kidney failure after a surgical procedure. Telemetry monitoring shows a widened QRS, frequent premature ventricular contractions, and a heart rate of 55/min. Which of the following electrolyte imbalances should the nurse identify?
Hyperkalemia.
Hypocalcemia.
Hyperglycemia.
Hypophosphatemia.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The combination of widened QRS, frequent premature ventricular contractions (PVCs), and bradycardia (heart rate of 55/min) on telemetry monitoring suggests hyperkalemia. Elevated potassium levels in the blood can cause delayed repolarization of cardiac cells, leading to widened QRS complexes and PVCs. Bradycardia is another common manifestation of hyperkalemia.
Choice B rationale:
Hypocalcemia, characterized by low calcium levels in the blood, can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, but it typically presents with a prolonged QT interval rather than widened QRS complexes and PVCs.
Choice C rationale:
Hyperglycemia, which is high blood glucose levels, does not directly affect the electrocardiogram (ECG) parameters like QRS width or heart rate. It may have systemic effects, but it is not responsible for the ECG changes described in the scenario.
Choice D rationale:
Hypophosphatemia, or low levels of phosphate in the blood, can cause muscle weakness and may have systemic effects, but it is not associated with the specific ECG changes seen in hyperkalemia, such as widened QRS complexes and PVCs.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Increasing the intake of dairy products is not recommended for a client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) as dairy can exacerbate symptoms in some individuals, particularly if they are lactose intolerant.
Choice B rationale:
Drinking ten glasses of water each day is a helpful recommendation for clients with IBS. Staying hydrated can aid in digestion and help alleviate symptoms like constipation.
Choice C rationale:
Decreasing daily fiber intake to 20 grams is not advisable for IBS management. Adequate fiber intake is essential for maintaining bowel regularity and overall gut health. Instead, it is recommended to focus on soluble fiber and gradually increase fiber intake to avoid exacerbating symptoms.
Choice D rationale:
Encouraging the intake of clear carbonated fluids is not ideal for clients with IBS. Carbonated beverages can cause bloating and gas, potentially worsening symptoms in individuals with sensitive digestive systems. It is better to recommend non-carbonated, non-caffeinated fluids for hydration.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
A PaO2 value of 86 mm Hg is within the normal range (80-100 mm Hg) and does not indicate respiratory acidosis. PaO2 measures the partial pressure of oxygen in arterial blood.
Choice B rationale:
A pH of 7.4 is within the normal range (7.35-7.45) and does not indicate respiratory acidosis. The pH reflects the acidity or alkalinity of the blood.
Choice C rationale:
An HCO3 (bicarbonate) level of 16 mEq/L is within the normal range (22-28 mEq/L) and does not indicate respiratory acidosis. HCO3 is a measure of the metabolic component of the body's acid-base balance.
Choice D rationale:
This is the correct choice. A PaCO2 value of 58 mm Hg is elevated and indicates respiratory acidosis. PaCO2 measures the partial pressure of carbon dioxide in arterial blood, and an elevated value suggests the presence of excess carbon dioxide, leading to acidosis.
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