A nurse is collecting data on a client who has diarrhea. Which of the following findings is a manifestation of hypokalemia?
Hypertension
Cerebral edema
Muscle weakness
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is c. Muscle weakness.
Choice A: Hypertension
Reason: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not a typical manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia primarily affects muscle function and the nervous system. While potassium imbalances can influence blood pressure, hypertension is more commonly associated with hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) rather than hypokalemia.
Choice B: Cerebral Edema
Reason: Cerebral edema, which is swelling of the brain, is not a known manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia affects muscle and nerve function, but it does not directly cause cerebral edema. This condition is more related to severe head injuries, infections, or other medical conditions.
Choice C: Muscle Weakness
Reason: Muscle weakness is a common and significant manifestation of hypokalemia. Potassium is crucial for muscle function, and low levels can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, and even paralysis in severe cases. This is because potassium helps in the transmission of nerve signals to muscles, and a deficiency disrupts this process.
Choice D: Hyperactive Bowel Sounds
Reason: Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. In fact, hypokalemia can lead to decreased bowel motility, resulting in symptoms like constipation or ileus (a condition where the intestines do not move properly). This is due to the role of potassium in muscle contractions, including those in the digestive tract.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The pulmonary artery is the large blood vessel that carries deoxygenated blood from the right ventricle to the lungs for gas exchange. It is the only artery that carries deoxygenated blood in the body.
Choice B reason: The pulmonary veins are the blood vessels that carry oxygenated blood from the lungs to the left atrium. They are the only veins that carry oxygenated blood in the body.
Choice C reason: The left ventricle is the chamber of the heart that pumps oxygenated blood to the rest of the body through the aorta. It does not directly connect to the lungs.
Choice D reason: The left atrium is the chamber of the heart that receives oxygenated blood from the pulmonary veins. It does not directly connect to the right ventricle.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Caffeinated beverages can cause diarrhea by stimulating the intestinal motility and increasing the fluid loss. They can also irritate the lining of the stomach and intestines.
Choice B reason: Low-fiber cereal is not likely to cause diarrhea. Fiber helps to bulk up the stool and regulate the bowel movements. Low-fiber foods are often recommended for clients with diarrhea to reduce intestinal activity.
Choice C reason: White rice is not likely to cause diarrhea. It is a bland and starchy food that can help to bind the stool and reduce fluid loss. White rice is often part of the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, toast) that is suggested for clients with diarrhea.
Choice D reason: Ripe bananas are not likely to cause diarrhea. They are rich in potassium, which can help to replenish the electrolytes lost due to diarrhea. They also contain pectin, a soluble fiber that can help to firm up the stool.
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