A nurse is gathering data from a client who is experiencing hypokalemia due to nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Which of the following symptoms should the nurse anticipate?
Hyperactive reflexes
Extreme thirst
Weak, irregular pulse
Hyperactive bowel sounds
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale
Hyperactive reflexes are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood, can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, constipation, and arrhythmia.
Choice B rationale
Extreme thirst is not a typical symptom of hypokalemia. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as diabetes.
Choice C rationale
A weak, irregular pulse is a common symptom of hypokalemia. Low levels of potassium can affect heart function, leading to abnormal heart rhythms.
Choice D rationale
Hyperactive bowel sounds are not typically associated with hypokalemia. In fact, constipation is a common symptom of this condition.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
An increased blood osmolarity, such as 260 mOsm/kg, can be a sign of dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, the concentration of solutes in the blood can increase, leading to higher osmolarity.
Choice B rationale
Hypotension, or low blood pressure, is not typically a sign of dehydration. In fact, dehydration can often cause blood pressure to increase due to the body’s efforts to compensate for the lack of fluid.
Choice C rationale
A high urine specific gravity, such as 1.035, can indicate dehydration. This measurement reflects the concentration of solutes in the urine, and a high value can mean that the body is conserving water due to dehydration.
Choice D rationale
An elevated blood sodium level, such as 150 mEq/L, can be a sign of dehydration. When the body is dehydrated, the concentration of sodium in the blood can increase.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hypothermia is not a typical finding in a client who has had diarrhea for several days. Diarrhea does not typically affect the body’s ability to regulate temperature.
Choice B rationale
Dehydration is a common finding in a client who has had diarrhea for several days. Diarrhea can lead to significant fluid and electrolyte loss, causing dehydration.
Choice C rationale
Decreased bowel sounds are not typically associated with diarrhea. In fact, hyperactive bowel sounds are more common due to increased intestinal motility.
Choice D rationale
A rigid abdomen is not a typical finding in a client who has had diarrhea for several days. A rigid abdomen may indicate a serious condition such as peritonitis or bowel obstruction, which are not typically associated with diarrhea.
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