A nurse is collecting data from a female client who has bulimia nervosa.
Which of the following manifestations should the nurse expect?
Increased potassium level.
Increased number of dental caries.
Increased bleeding with menstruation.
Increased blood pressure.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Clients with bulimia nervosa are at risk for hypokalemia (decreased potassium level) due to recurrent vomiting or misuse of laxatives or diuretics, which can lead to significant electrolyte imbalances. Normal serum potassium levels range from 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.
Choice B rationale
An increased number of dental caries is a common manifestation in clients with bulimia nervosa. The stomach acid brought up during frequent vomiting erodes tooth enamel, making the teeth more susceptible to decay and the formation of cavities.
Choice C rationale
Bulimia nervosa is not typically associated with increased bleeding during menstruation (menorrhagia). Menstrual irregularities, including amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), can occur due to hormonal imbalances related to eating disorders and weight fluctuations.
Choice D rationale
Blood pressure can vary in individuals with bulimia nervosa. While dehydration from purging behaviors might initially cause low blood pressure, compensatory mechanisms or anxiety related to the disorder could also lead to normal or even elevated blood pressure in some cases.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
"Tell me about your baby. Where is she now?" is the priority response because it immediately assesses the safety and well-being of the baby. The mother's statement suggests potential distress and inability to cope, raising concerns about the infant's care.
Choice B rationale
"Do you have a friend who could help you?" explores the client's support system, which is important but secondary to ensuring the immediate safety of the baby.
Choice C rationale
"Having a newborn must be stressful" is an empathetic statement that acknowledges the client's feelings. While therapeutic, it does not address the potential immediate needs and safety of the baby.
Choice D rationale
"Do you have other children?" gathers information about the client's family situation, but it is not the priority when there is a potential concern about the well-being of the newborn. .
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Liver function tests, such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) with a normal range of 7 to 56 U/L for females and 10 to 70 U/L for males, and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) with a normal range of 5 to 40 U/L for both sexes, should be reviewed before administering valproic acid. Valproic acid can cause hepatotoxicity, and pre-existing liver dysfunction is a contraindication or requires careful monitoring.
Choice B rationale
A chest x-ray is primarily used to assess the lungs and heart. It is not directly relevant to the potential side effects or contraindications of valproic acid therapy.
Choice C rationale
A prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test is used to screen for prostate cancer in men. It is not related to the potential adverse effects of valproic acid. The normal range for PSA is generally less than 4 ng/mL, but this can vary with age.
Choice D rationale
A urine culture is used to detect urinary tract infections. While important for overall health assessment, it does not directly assess for contraindications or potential organ-specific side effects associated with valproic acid administration. .
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