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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) "Your daily intake of fats should be limited to no more than 35% of your daily caloric intake":
Current dietary guidelines typically recommend limiting fat intake to less than 30% of total daily calories, not 35%, for optimal heart health. This recommendation is slightly higher than what is generally advised for managing high cholesterol.
B) "You should avoid trans-fat as much as possible":
Trans fats significantly increase LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) levels and decrease HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol). Avoiding trans fats is crucial in managing high cholesterol and reducing cardiovascular risk, making this the most important recommendation.
C) "Your main sources of protein should be red meat":
Red meat, particularly processed red meat, is associated with higher cholesterol levels and cardiovascular risk. It is generally recommended to choose lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and plant-based sources, over red meat.
D) "Fats provide the highest amount of energy per gram":
While fats do provide more energy per gram than carbohydrates or proteins, this statement does not directly address the management of cholesterol levels. The focus should be on the type of fats consumed rather than their energy content.
E) "Your intake of fats should be unsaturated fats":
While consuming unsaturated fats is beneficial, avoiding trans fats specifically addresses a more immediate concern for those with high cholesterol. Option B emphasizes the importance of eliminating harmful fats.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Isotonic solution: Isotonic solutions, such as 0.9% sodium chloride, maintain the current sodium levels and fluid balance but do not correct hypernatremia. They are not suitable for lowering elevated sodium levels.
B) Total Parenteral Nutrition (TPN): TPN is used for providing comprehensive nutritional support and does not address electrolyte imbalances such as hypernatremia. It is not used to manage sodium levels directly.
C) Hypertonic solution: Hypertonic solutions, such as 3% sodium chloride, increase sodium levels and are used for treating hyponatremia or specific conditions requiring higher sodium concentrations. They would worsen hypernatremia.
D) Hypotonic solution: Hypotonic solutions, like 0.45% sodium chloride (half-normal saline) or Dextrose 5% in water (D5W), are appropriate for treating hypernatremia. They help dilute the sodium concentration in the blood and aid in correcting the elevated sodium levels
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