A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has bulimia nervosa. The nurse should notify the provider of which of the following results?
Potassium 3.2 mEq/L
WBC 5,200/mm3
Hgb 14 g/dL
Magnesium 1.6 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is A
Low potassium levels, known as hypokalemia, can be a significant concern in individuals with bulimia nervosa due to the frequent purging behaviors associated with the condition. Purging, such as self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives or diuretics, can lead to excessive loss of potassium from the body. Hypokalemia can have serious consequences, including cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, fatigue, and even life-threatening complications.
The normal range for potassium is typically around 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. With a potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L falling below the normal range, it indicates a low potassium level and requires prompt attention.
The other laboratory results mentioned in the question are within normal ranges:
● A WBC (white blood cell) count of 5,200/mm3 falls within the normal range (typically between 4,500 and 11,000/mm3) and indicates a normal white blood cell count.
● An Hgb (hemoglobin) level of 14 g/dL falls within the normal range (typically between 12 and 16 g/dL) and indicates a normal hemoglobin level.
● A magnesium level of 1.6 mEq/L, although slightly low, is still within the normal range (typically between 1.5 and 2.5 mEq/L). The nurse should monitor it closely and assess for symptoms associated with hypomagnesemia. If the client's symptoms or other clinical indications suggest a significant magnesium imbalance, the healthcare provider should be notified.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder in which the ingestion of gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley, triggers an immune response and causes damage to the small intestine. Therefore, individuals with celiac disease need to follow a strict gluten-free diet.
Rice cereal with sliced bananas: This is a suitable choice as long as the rice cereal is gluten-free and there is no cross-contamination with gluten-containing ingredients. Rice is
naturally gluten-free, and fresh fruits like bananas are safe for individuals with celiac disease.
Rye toast with herbal tea: Rye is a gluten-containing grain, so rye toast is not suitable for someone with celiac disease. Herbal tea is typically gluten-free, but the toast is not appropriate.
Graham crackers with peanut butter: Graham crackers are usually made with wheat flour, which contains gluten. Therefore, they are not suitable for someone with celiac disease.
Poached eggs with wheat bagel: Wheat is a gluten-containing grain, so a wheat bagel is not appropriate for someone with celiac disease.
It is essential for individuals with celiac disease to carefully read food labels and select gluten-free options.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a condition characterized by the buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries, leading to reduced blood flow to the heart. Several risk factors contribute to the development of CHD, including high blood glucose levels, high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, and high total cholesterol levels.
HbA1c 5%: HbA1c is a measure of average blood glucose levels over the past 2-3 months. A level of 5% is within the target range for individuals without diabetes and indicates good glycemic control. It does not place the client at risk for CHD.
Fasting glucose 140 mg/dL: Fasting glucose levels above 126 mg/dL are considered diagnostic criteria for diabetes mellitus. A level of 140 mg/dL indicates hyperglycemia and suggests impaired glucose metabolism, which is a risk factor for CHD.
LDL 64 mg/dL: LDL cholesterol is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, as elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of CHD. A level of 64 mg/dL is within the desirable range and does not place the client at risk for CHD.
Total cholesterol 173 mg/dL: Total cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dL are generally considered desirable. A level of 173 mg/dL is within the desirable range and does not place the client at risk for CHD.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.