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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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Apply 4 to 5 ml of liquid soap to the hands: This is the correct action. Applying an adequate amount of soap ensures effective cleaning of the hands. The recommended amount is typically 3 to 5 ml or enough to cover the entire surface of the hands.
B. Hold the hands higher than the elbows: This is incorrect. When performing hand hygiene, the hands should be held lower than the elbows to prevent water from running down the arms and contaminating previously cleaned areas.
C. Rub hands and arms to dry: This is incorrect. After washing the hands, they should be dried using a clean paper towel or air dryer. Rubbing hands and arms to dry is not recommended as it can lead to friction and potential skin irritation.
D. Adjust the water temperature to feel hot: This is incorrect. The water temperature should be warm, not hot, to prevent skin damage or discomfort. Hot water can strip the skin of its natural oils and lead to dryness or irritation.

A. Maintain the head of the bed in a flat position for 30 min following medication administration B. Mix the three medications together prior to administering C. Rush the NC feeding tube with 30 mL of water immediate D. Dilute each medication with 10 mL of tap water.

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Maintain the head of the bed in a flat position for 30 min following medication administration: This option is incorrect because after administering medications through an NG tube, it's crucial to elevate the head of the bed to at least 30 to 45 degrees to minimize the risk of aspiration. Keeping the head of the bed flat increases the likelihood of reflux and aspiration of medication.
B. Mix the three medications together prior to administering: This option is incorrect because mixing medications without specific instructions from the healthcare provider can lead to potential interactions or alterations in the effectiveness of the drugs. Each medication should be administered separately to ensure accurate dosing and prevent potential adverse effects.
C. Rush the NG feeding tube with 30 mL of water immediately: This option is incorrect because while flushing the NG tube with water after medication administration is necessary to ensure that the medications reach the stomach and to prevent tube occlusion, the recommended volume for flushing is typically 30 to 60 mL, not just 30 mL. Using a larger volume of water helps ensure thorough flushing of the tube.
D. Dilute each medication with 10 mL of tap water: This is the correct action. Diluting each medication with 10 mL of tap water is a standard practice to ensure proper administration through an NG tube. Dilution helps prevent tube occlusion and irritation of the gastric mucosa, reducing the risk of complications such as clogging of the tube or local irritation. Additionally, diluting the medications facilitates their passage through the tube and into the stomach, optimizing absorption and effectiveness while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.

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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?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is preparing to perform hand hygiene. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is preparing to administer three liquid medications to a client who has an NG feeding tube with continuous enteral feedings. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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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