A nurse is reviewing laboratory data on a client who is recovering from surgery.
Drag 1 condition and 1 client finding to fill in each blank in the following sentence.
The client is at risk for developing due to
The Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"E","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Potassium Levels: The postoperative potassium level for the client is 3.0 mEq/L, which falls below the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Potassium is a critical electrolyte necessary for the proper functioning of cardiac muscles. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the electrical conductivity of the heart. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can disrupt this electrical conductivity, leading to abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can manifest as palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or more severe cardiac events, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.
Importance of Potassium in Cardiac Function: Potassium is essential for the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. It helps in the return of the cell to its resting state after each heartbeat. A deficiency in potassium disrupts this balance, increasing the risk of erratic heartbeats and arrhythmias. Low potassium can prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a marker for potential arrhythmic events.
Clinical Implications: For a postoperative client, maintaining electrolyte balance is crucial. Surgery and anesthesia can affect fluid and electrolyte levels, making it essential to monitor and correct any imbalances. The decrease in potassium levels from 3.5 mEq/L preoperatively to 3.0 mEq/L postoperatively highlights a trend that must be addressed to prevent complications such as arrhythmias.
Preventative Measures: To mitigate the risk of arrhythmias, the healthcare team should consider interventions to correct the hypokalemia. This may include administering potassium supplements orally or intravenously, depending on the severity and clinical context. Continuous cardiac monitoring may also be warranted to detect and manage any emerging arrhythmic events promptly.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Propranolol is a beta-blocker medication commonly used to treat hypertension, angina, and certain heart rhythm disorders. However, it is contraindicated in clients with a history of asthma or other obstructive airway diseases due to its potential to cause bronchoconstriction and exacerbate respiratory symptoms.
B. Migraines:
Propranolol is actually commonly used for the prophylactic treatment of migraines, particularly in individuals with frequent or severe migraines. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of migraine attacks by blocking the release of certain chemicals in the brain.
C. Glaucoma:
Propranolol can be used in the treatment of glaucoma, particularly when other treatments have been ineffective. It works by reducing intraocular pressure, which can help prevent vision loss associated with glaucoma.
D. Depression:
Propranolol is not contraindicated in clients with depression. In fact, it may sometimes be used off-label to manage certain symptoms of anxiety or performance anxiety. However, it is important to monitor clients with depression closely when prescribing propranolol, as it may interact with other medications used to treat depression or worsen certain depressive symptoms.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) The client with end-stage renal failure scheduled for dialysis is at risk for fluid volume excess rather than deficit. Dialysis is a treatment to remove excess fluid and waste products from the body, which can lead to fluid volume deficit if not managed appropriately, but the scenario does not indicate current dehydration.
B) The client with gastroenteritis and fever is at risk for fluid volume deficit due to fluid loss from vomiting, diarrhea, and fever-induced diaphoresis. Gastroenteritis commonly leads to dehydration, especially when accompanied by fever, which increases fluid loss through sweating.
C) The client with left-sided heart failure and an elevated brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) level is at risk for fluid volume excess rather than deficit. Elevated BNP levels indicate heart failure, which can result in fluid retention and volume overload rather than deficit.
D) The client who has been NPO since midnight for endoscopy is at risk for fluid volume deficit due to fasting. However, the severity and duration of fasting are not specified in the scenario, so it may not present an immediate risk compared to the client with gastroenteritis and fever.
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