A nurse is reviewing the EKG strip of a client who has prolonged vomiting. Which of the following abnormalities on the client's EKG should the nurse interpret as a sign of hypokalemia?

Inverted P wave

Wide ORS

Elevated ST segment

Abnormally prominent U wave

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Inverted P wave: An inverted P wave may indicate atrial depolarization abnormalities but is not typically associated with hypokalemia. It can be seen in conditions such as atrial enlargement or atrial ischemia. However, in hypokalemia, the P wave may become flattened or have a decreased amplitude, but it is less likely to be inverted.
B. Wide QRS: A wide QRS complex may indicate conduction abnormalities or bundle branch blocks, but it is not specifically associated with hypokalemia. Wide QRS complexes are more commonly seen in conditions such as bundle branch blocks or electrolyte imbalances like hyperkalemia. Hypokalemia tends to cause a prolongation of the QT interval rather than widening of the QRS complex.
C. Elevated ST segment: An elevated ST segment is typically associated with myocardial injury or infarction, not hypokalemia. It can be indicative of conditions such as myocardial ischemia or pericarditis. In hypokalemia, ST segment changes are more likely to be flattened or depressed rather than elevated.
D. Abnormally prominent U wave: An abnormally prominent U wave is a classic EKG finding in hypokalemia. Hypokalemia prolongs the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential, leading to the appearance of U waves following the T wave. These U waves can become more pronounced as potassium levels decrease. Therefore, an abnormally prominent U wave is a significant indicator of hypokalemia on an EKG, especially in a patient with prolonged vomiting, which can lead to potassium depletion. Thus, it is the most pertinent abnormality to interpret in this context.

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Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]

Explanation

A. Fine hand tremors and pill rolling: These symptoms are more indicative of parkinsonism, which is another extrapyramidal side effect of antipsychotic medications but not specifically tardive dyskinesia.
B. Facial grimacing and eye blinking: Facial grimacing and eye blinking are classic signs of tardive dyskinesia. These involuntary movements of the face are often seen in patients who have been on antipsychotic medications for an extended period.
C. Urinary retention and constipation: Urinary retention and constipation are not typically associated with tardive dyskinesia. These symptoms may be related to other medication side effects or unrelated conditions.
D. Involuntary pelvic rocking and hip thrusting movements: These movements are characteristic of tardive dyskinesia. Involuntary pelvic rocking and hip thrusting can occur as part of the abnormal involuntary movements seen in tardive dyskinesia.
E. Tongue thrusting and lip smacking: Tongue thrusting and lip smacking are classic signs of tardive dyskinesia, particularly involving the orofacial region. These movements can be distressing for patients and may interfere with speech and eating.

A. Fidelity B. Veracity C. Utilitarianism D. Non-maleficence

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Fidelity: Fidelity refers to the duty to fulfill one's commitments and obligations. While important in nursing practice, fidelity is not directly applicable to the decision not to administer pain medication in this scenario.
B. Veracity: Veracity refers to truthfulness and honesty in communication. While it is important for the nurse to communicate honestly with the client and their family about the risks and benefits of pain management, the decision not to administer pain medication is primarily based on the principle of non-maleficence.
C. Utilitarianism: Utilitarianism is an ethical theory that emphasizes the greatest good for the greatest number of people. While pain relief may contribute to the overall well-being of the client, the decision not to administer pain medication in this scenario is more closely aligned with the principle of non-maleficence, as it focuses on avoiding harm to the individual client.
D. Non-maleficence: Non-maleficence is the ethical principle that emphasizes the duty to do no harm. In this situation, the nurse's primary concern is to avoid causing harm to the client. Administering pain medication to relieve suffering, even if it might hasten death, aligns with the principle of non-maleficence because the intent is to alleviate suffering and provide comfort to the dying client.

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A nurse is reviewing the EKG strip of a client who has prolonged vomiting. Which of the following abnormalities on the client's EKG should the nurse interpret as a sign of hypokalemia?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a client who was admitted with acute psychosis and is being treated with haloperidol. The nurse should suspect that the client may be experiencing tardive dyskinesia when the client exhibits which of the following? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]

Explanation

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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