A nurse is caring for four clients who have drainage tubes. Which of the following clients should the nurse recognize as being at risk for hypokalemia?
The client who has a chest tube to water seal
The client who has a tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen
The client who has an indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage
The client who has a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction
The Correct Answer is D
A. A chest tube to water seal is used to remove air or fluid from the pleural space. This does not directly impact the client's potassium levels.
B. A tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen delivers oxygen directly to the client's airway and does not have a direct effect on potassium levels.
C. An indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage does not typically cause significant potassium loss. Urinary catheters primarily collect urine, which contains waste products, rather than electrolytes like potassium.
D. A client with an NG tube to suction may experience loss of gastric contents, which can lead to the loss of electrolytes, including potassium. This places the client at risk for hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Contacting the pharmacy might be a good step in some cases, but if the nurse has identified a dosage that is three times higher than usual, it's crucial to address this directly with the prescribing provider first.
B. Asking another nurse to verify is a reasonable step, but ultimately, it's the responsibility of the nurse who identifies the discrepancy to take action.
C. Informing the charge nurse and administering the dose without questioning the provider's order could potentially put the client at risk if the dosage is indeed too high.
D. Contacting the provider to question the dosage is the most appropriate immediate action. It's crucial to seek clarification from the provider regarding the unusually high dosage to ensure the safety and well-being of the client. This step ensures that the client receives the correct and safe medication dosage.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is the correct method for identifying the client before administering medication.
Asking for the client's full name and date of birth is a standard and effective way to ensure that the right medication is given to the right person.
B. Depending solely on a family member to verify the client's identity is not considered a reliable method. While involving family members can be helpful in certain situations, the primary responsibility lies with the nurse to directly confirm the client's identity.
C. Verifying the client's room number is not a sufficient method of client identification.
Room numbers can change, and it's possible for clients to be moved, so relying on this alone is not considered safe practice.
D. Checking the client's name on the medication administration record (MAR) is an important step in medication administration, but it is not the initial method of identifying the client. It's used to confirm that the right medication is being administered to the right person after the client's identity has been established through direct interaction and confirmation.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
