A nurse is caring for a client with chronic renal failure. The client reports experiencing muscle cramps. What is the nurse's best action?
Provide the client with a heating pad to apply to the affected muscles.
Encourage the client to increase fluid intake.
Administer a prescribed calcium supplement.
Educate the client about the importance of potassium-rich foods.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Incorrect. Applying a heating pad may provide temporary relief for muscle cramps, but it does not address the underlying cause.
B. Correct. Muscle cramps in clients with chronic renal failure can be caused by dehydration and electrolyte imbalances. Encouraging the client to increase fluid intake can help alleviate muscle cramps and maintain adequate hydration.
C. Incorrect. While calcium supplements may be prescribed in certain situations, they are not the first-line intervention for muscle cramps in chronic renal failure.
D. Incorrect. Educating the client about potassium-rich foods is important for managing potassium levels, but it is not the priority in this situation. Muscle cramps are more likely related to fluid and electrolyte imbalances rather than potassium intake.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Incorrect. Increasing the intake of potassium-rich foods may not be appropriate, especially if the client's potassium levels are already elevated due to chronic renal failure. High potassium levels can lead to muscle cramps.
B. Incorrect. While regular weight-bearing exercises are beneficial for overall health, they may not specifically address or alleviate muscle cramps in chronic renal failure.
C. Correct. Engaging in stretching exercises before bedtime can help reduce the frequency of muscle cramps in clients with chronic renal failure. Stretching can help relax and lengthen muscles, reducing the risk of cramping.
D. Incorrect. Taking over-the-counter calcium supplements without proper evaluation of calcium levels can be dangerous and may contribute to other imbalances in chronic renal failure.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Incorrect. A GFR value of 10 mL/min/1.73m² indicates severe kidney dysfunction, not mild impairment.
B. Correct. A GFR value of 10 mL/min/1.73m² is considered very low and indicates severe kidney dysfunction. At this level, the kidneys are severely damaged and unable to effectively filter waste and fluids from the blood.
C. Incorrect. A GFR value of 10 mL/min/1.73m² is much lower than the threshold for moderate kidney dysfunction.
D. Incorrect. A GFR value of 10 mL/min/1.73m² is far below the normal range and indicates significant kidney dysfunction, not normal kidney function.
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