A nurse is reviewing the admission laboratory values for a client who has a history of bulimia nervosa. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

Potassium 2.8 mEq/L

Serum chloride 96 mEq/L

Hgb 11g/dL

Serum amylase 240 units/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Potassium 2.8 mEq/L
Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a critical finding and a priority in individuals with a history of bulimia nervosa, as it can lead to life-threatening complications such as cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Frequent vomiting and laxative use, common behaviors in bulimia nervosa, can result in significant potassium loss. A potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is significantly below the normal range and requires immediate attention.

B. Serum chloride 96 mEq/L: While this value is within the normal range, it should be monitored. However, it is not as critical as addressing severe hypokalemia.

C. Hemoglobin (Hgb) 11 g/dL: This hemoglobin level is within the normal range and does not require immediate attention. It may be influenced by factors other than bulimia nervosa, and addressing hypokalemia is more urgent.

D. Serum amylase 240 units/L: Elevated amylase levels may indicate pancreatic inflammation, which could be related to bulimia nervosa, but it is not as urgent as addressing severe hypokalemia. The priority is managing the life-threatening electrolyte imbalance first.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Stating that the medication will prevent depression is not accurate. Risperidone primarily addresses symptoms of psychosis and does not specifically target depression.

B. Indicating that the medication will improve mood is not the primary purpose of risperidone. Its focus is on managing psychotic symptoms rather than directly impacting mood.

C. Mentioning that the medication will decrease anxiety is not the primary action of risperidone. While it might indirectly reduce anxiety associated with psychotic symptoms, it's not its primary function.

D. "This medication will clear your thinking."
Risperidone is an antipsychotic medication commonly used to manage symptoms of schizophrenia, including hallucinations, delusions, and disorganized thinking. While it won't directly improve mood, decrease anxiety, or prevent depression, it aims to alleviate symptoms related to psychosis, allowing for clearer and more organized thinking by reducing hallucinations and delusions.

A. Sodium level B. Phosphate level C. Magnesium level D. Respiratory rate E. capillary refill F. Blood pressure G. Glucose level

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E","F","G"]

Explanation

A. Sodium level:
Abnormal sodium levels can have serious consequences, including neurological symptoms. Immediate follow-up is necessary to assess and manage electrolyte imbalances, as severe cases can lead to complications such as seizures.

B. Phosphate level:
While phosphate levels are important to monitor, they may not require immediate follow-up unless severe abnormalities are present. Severe phosphate imbalances can occur in the context of malnutrition, but they may not necessitate immediate intervention in the ED unless critical.

C. Magnesium level:
Similar to phosphate, magnesium levels are crucial but may not demand immediate follow-up unless severe abnormalities are detected. While magnesium imbalances can occur in eating disorders, the urgency depends on the extent of the imbalance.

D. Respiratory rate:
Rapid or abnormal respiratory rates can be indicative of respiratory distress, which may occur in individuals with severe anorexia nervosa. Monitoring and addressing respiratory issues promptly are crucial for the client's respiratory function.

E. Capillary refill:
Capillary refill is included in the list of findings that require immediate follow-up. Prolonged capillary refill time indicates potential issues with peripheral perfusion and warrants prompt attention to assess and address any circulation concerns.

F. Blood pressure:
Abnormal blood pressure, especially low blood pressure, can indicate cardiovascular compromise, which is a concern in severe cases of anorexia nervosa. Monitoring and addressing abnormal blood pressure promptly are essential for the client's well-being.

G. Glucose level:
Anorexia nervosa can lead to hypoglycemia, and low glucose levels can result in various complications, including neurological symptoms. Immediate follow-up is necessary to assess and manage glucose levels for the well-being of the client

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A nurse is reviewing the admission laboratory values for a client who has a history of bulimia nervosa. Which of the following findings is the nurse's priority?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who has paranoid schizophrenia and a new prescription for risperidone. The client asks the nurse what the s is supposed to do. Which of the following responses should the nurse make?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Correct Answer is ["A","D","E","F","G"]

Explanation

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