A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking furosemide and notes the client's potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following physiological responses should the nurse expect related to the client's hypokalemia?
Hypoglycemia
Hyperreflexia
Cardiac dysrhythmias
Increased appetite
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar, is not typically associated with hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood. While both conditions can occur due to certain diseases or medication use, they are not directly related.
B. Hyperreflexia: Hyperreflexia, a condition characterized by overactive reflexes, is not a common symptom of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia primarily affects muscle function, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and potentially cardiac dysrhythmias. It does not typically cause an overactive reflex response.
C. Cardiac dysrhythmias: This is correct. Hypokalemia can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining normal electrical activity in the heart. When potassium levels are low, it can disrupt this electrical activity, leading to irregular heart rhythms.
D. Increased appetite: Increased appetite is not a typical symptom of hypokalemia. In fact, loss of appetite is more commonly associated with this condition. Severe hypokalemia can affect the functioning of the muscles in the digestive system, leading to symptoms such as bloating, constipation, and abdominal pain.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","F"]
Explanation
A. Is the research applicable to other populations? This is a crucial question in the critical appraisal of evidence. The applicability or generalizability of research findings to other populations is an important aspect of any study. If the study’s sample is representative and diverse, the findings are more likely to be applicable to other populations.
B. What methods were used to conduct the research? Understanding the methods used in a study is fundamental to evaluating its validity. The research design, data collection methods, and analysis techniques all contribute to the strength of the study’s findings.
C. How were the study results analyzed? The analysis of study results is a key component of research. The statistical methods used can greatly impact the interpretation of the results. Understanding how the results were analyzed can help determine if the conclusions drawn are valid.
D. Does the study have reliability? Reliability refers to the consistency or repeatability of the study’s findings. If a study is reliable, it means that if the study were repeated under the same conditions, it would produce the same results. This is a key factor in determining the quality of a study.
E. What were the costs associated with the research? While understanding the costs associated with research can be important in some contexts, it is not typically a key factor in the critical appraisal of the evidence itself. The focus of critical appraisal is more on the quality, validity, and applicability of the research rather than the costs involved in conducting it.
F. What was the purpose of the study? Understanding the purpose or objective of the study is a fundamental part of critical appraisal. It helps to determine whether the study design, methods, and analysis are appropriate for answering the research question.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Recent oral intake: This information is crucial because pyridostigmine is typically administered orally and can interact with food, affecting its absorption. Ensuring that the client has recently eaten or will eat soon is essential to minimize gastrointestinal side effects and optimize medication absorption.
B) Trouble sleeping: While sleep disturbances can be a concern, particularly if they worsen with medication use, they may not be the most critical information to obtain before administering pyridostigmine. However, if the client experiences worsening sleep disturbances after starting the medication, it should be reported to the healthcare provider.
C) Unexplained weight loss: While weight loss can be a symptom of myasthenia gravis, it may not be directly related to the administration of pyridostigmine. However, if the client experiences significant weight loss or other unexplained symptoms, further assessment and evaluation may be necessary.
D) Difficulty with urination: Pyridostigmine can affect bladder function and may exacerbate urinary retention, especially in clients with myasthenia gravis. However, obtaining information about the client's recent oral intake is more crucial to ensure optimal medication absorption and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Difficulty with urination should still be monitored, but it may not be the most immediate concern before administering the medication.
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