A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who received a dose of sodium polystyrene sulfonate.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as an indication that the medication has been effective?
Potassium 4.6 mEq/L.
Calcium 8 mg/dL.
Magnesium.1 mEq/L.
Sodium 150 mEq/L.
The Correct Answer is A
Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is a medication used to treat high levels of potassium in the blood.
A potassium level of 4.6 mEq/L is within the normal range, indicating that the medication has been effective in reducing high levels of potassium in the blood.
Choice B is wrong because Calcium 8 mg/dL, is not the correct answer because it measures the level of calcium in the blood and is not specifically related to sodium polystyrene sulfonate therapy.
Choice C is wrong because Magnesium.1 mEq/L, is not the correct answer because it measures the level of magnesium in the blood and is not specifically related to sodium polystyrene sulfonate therapy.
Choice D is wrong because Sodium 150 mEq/L, is not the correct answer because it measures the level of sodium in the blood and is not specifically related to sodium polystyrene sulfonate therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
- A. Assist the client to a left lateral position.
- This is generally used for clients at risk of aspiration, and it's not indicated based on the lithium level.
- B. Implement fluid restrictions.
- Fluid restrictions are usually implemented when there is a risk of fluid overload or hyponatremia, and not in this case. In fact, dehydration can raise lithium levels to toxic levels, so proper hydration is important.
- C. Request a dosage increase from the provider.
- While 0.6 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range, some providers may want to see a level slightly higher for maintenance. So requesting a dosage increase from the provider is the correct action.
- D. Prepare the client for hemodialysis.
- Hemodialysis is used to remove lithium from the blood in cases of severe lithium toxicity, which is indicated by levels significantly higher than 1.5 mEq/L. This is not needed when the lithium level is 0.6 mEq/L.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
This is because hypotension (low blood pressure) can be a sign of anaphylaxis, which is a severe allergic reaction that can occur with ceftriaxone.

Choice A is wrong because polyuria (increased urination) is not a common sign of an allergic reaction to ceftriaxone.
Choice C is wrong because nausea can be a side effect of ceftriaxone but is not specific to an allergic reaction.
Choice D is wrong because bradycardia (slow heart rate) is not a common sign of an allergic reaction to ceftriaxone.
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