A nurse is caring for a client with a current blood potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which finding would this client have?

Constipation

Polyuria

EKG with a U wave

Paresthesias of the extremities

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Constipation: Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) typically affect neuromuscular and cardiac function rather than gastrointestinal motility. Constipation is more commonly associated with conditions like hypokalemia or electrolyte imbalances affecting the gastrointestinal system.

B) Polyuria: Polyuria, or excessive urination, is not directly caused by hyperkalemia. It can occur due to conditions like diabetes mellitus or diabetes insipidus, or as a side effect of certain medications like diuretics. Hyperkalemia does not typically lead to increased urine output and may even lead to oliguria if severe renal impairment occurs.

C) EKG with a U wave: The presence of a U wave on an electrocardiogram (EKG) is typically associated with hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia. U waves are seen when potassium levels are low, reflecting delayed repolarization of the ventricles. In hyperkalemia, EKG changes more commonly include peaked T waves, prolonged PR interval, and widened QRS complexes.

D) Paresthesias of the extremities: Hyperkalemia can cause paresthesias, which are sensations of tingling or numbness, particularly in the extremities. This occurs due to the effect of elevated potassium levels on nerve and muscle function. As potassium is essential for maintaining normal neuromuscular function, deviations from normal levels can disrupt action potentials and lead to sensory disturbances like paresthesias.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Chadwick's sign: Chadwick's sign is related to pregnancy and refers to the bluish discoloration of the cervix and vaginal walls due to increased blood flow. It is not associated with calcium levels or postoperative thyroidectomy.

B) Murphy's sign: Murphy's sign is used to diagnose gallbladder inflammation or cholecystitis. It involves palpation of the right upper quadrant of the abdomen and is not related to calcium levels or thyroid surgery.

C) Babinski's sign: Babinski's sign is a neurological reflex test used to assess the presence of upper motor neuron lesions. It is not associated with calcium levels or postoperative thyroidectomy.

D) Chvostek's sign: Chvostek's sign is a clinical indicator of hypocalcemia, where tapping on the facial nerve causes twitching of the facial muscles. With the client's calcium level of 3 mg/dL, which is significantly low, Chvostek's sign would likely be positive, indicating hypocalcemia.

A. Hyperactive bowel sounds B. muscle weakness C. Increased thirst D. Cerebral edema

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Hyperactive bowel sounds:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are more commonly associated with conditions like diarrhea or gastrointestinal obstruction. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, typically affects muscle function rather than bowel activity directly.

B) Muscle weakness:

Muscle weakness is a key manifestation of hypokalemia. Potassium is crucial for muscle function, and a deficiency can lead to significant weakness and fatigue, which is a common symptom in individuals with low potassium levels.

C) Increased thirst:

Increased thirst is more commonly associated with dehydration or hypernatremia rather than hypokalemia. While hypokalemia can cause fluid imbalances, increased thirst is not a primary symptom of low potassium levels.

D) Cerebral edema:

Cerebral edema is not typically associated with hypokalemia. It is more commonly related to conditions such as head injury, infection, or other fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Hypokalemia primarily affects muscle function and heart rhythm.

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﻿A nurse is caring for a client with a current blood potassium level of 5.4 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which finding would this client have?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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