A nurse is caring for a client who is postoperative and has an NG tube that has drained 2,500 ml. In the past 6 hr. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following electrolyte Imbalances?
Decreased potassium level
Decreased calcium level
Elevated magnesium level
Elevated sodium level
The Correct Answer is A
A. Decreased potassium level
NG tube drainage can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to the loss of gastric fluids, which contain significant amounts of potassium. This choice is correct.
B. Decreased calcium level
Calcium levels are not directly affected by NG tube drainage.
C. Elevated magnesium level
NG tube drainage does not typically lead to elevated magnesium levels.
D. Elevated sodium level
NG tube drainage can result in hyponatremia (low sodium levels) due to the loss of gastric fluids. Elevated sodium levels are not expected in this situation.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Troponin:
Troponin is a protein found in the heart muscle. Elevated levels of troponin in the blood indicate damage to the heart, often due to a heart attack or other cardiac issues. This marker is crucial in diagnosing heart-related problems.
B. Albumin:
Albumin is a protein produced by the liver and is essential for maintaining blood volume and regulating fluid balance. It also helps transport various substances in the blood. Low levels of albumin are indicative of malnutrition, liver disease, or kidney disorders.
C. D-dimer:
D-dimer is a substance in the blood that is released when a blood clot breaks up. Elevated levels of D-dimer can indicate the presence of an abnormal blood clot, but it is not specific to malnutrition. It is often used in diagnosing conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
D. Creatinine:
Creatinine is a waste product produced by the muscles and excreted by the kidneys. Creatinine levels in the blood can indicate how well the kidneys are functioning. Elevated levels can suggest kidney damage or other kidney-related issues but are not directly related to malnutrition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. A nephrostomy tube to a drainage bag:
A nephrostomy tube drains urine from the kidney to a drainage bag. While it's essential for urinary drainage, it doesn't lead to significant potassium loss, as potassium is primarily excreted through the urine.
B. An NG tube to suction:
An NG tube (Nasogastric tube) is inserted through the nose into the stomach. When connected to suction, it can remove stomach contents, including gastric acid and potassium. Excessive suctioning can lead to significant potassium loss, potentially causing hypokalemia.
C. An indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage:
An indwelling urinary catheter drains urine from the bladder into a drainage bag by gravity. While potassium can be found in urine, the drainage through a catheter does not cause significant potassium loss unless there are underlying kidney issues, which are not specified in this scenario.
D. A chest tube to water-seal drainage:
A chest tube removes air or fluid from the pleural space around the lungs. While chest tubes are vital for lung expansion, they don't result in significant potassium loss as they are not connected to body fluids rich in potassium, like gastric acid or urine.
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