A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide. Which of the following results should the nurse identify as the priority finding?

Phosphorus 4.5 mEq/L.

Potassium 2.9 mEq/L.

Calcium 8.2 mg/dL.

Sodium 145 mEq/L.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A rationale:

A phosphorus level of 4.5 mEq/L falls within the normal range, which is typically between 2.5 to 4.5 mEq/L. Although it's essential to monitor phosphorus levels, it is not the priority finding in this scenario.

Choice B rationale:

A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is the priority finding. The normal range for potassium is typically between 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L indicates severe hypokalemia, which can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. Immediate intervention is necessary to address the potassium imbalance.

Choice C rationale:

A calcium level of 8.2 mg/dL falls within the normal range (typically 8.5 to 10.2 mg/dL). While calcium levels are essential to monitor, they do not take precedence over the critically low potassium level in this situation.

Choice D rationale:

A sodium level of 145 mEq/L falls within the normal range, which is usually around 135 to 145 mEq/L. Although monitoring sodium levels is important, it is not the priority finding when compared to the critically low potassium level.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A rationale:

While acute renal failure can affect phosphorus levels, potassium is the electrolyte most commonly affected in this condition. Kidneys play a crucial role in regulating potassium levels in the body, and when they fail, potassium levels can become dangerously elevated.

Choice B rationale:

Acute renal failure can lead to alterations in magnesium levels, but potassium is typically more affected. Magnesium imbalances may occur but are not the primary concern in this condition.

Choice C rationale:

As mentioned earlier, potassium imbalances are common in acute renal failure. The nurse should closely monitor the patient's potassium levels and be prepared to intervene if they become too high or too low.

Choice D rationale:

Calcium levels may also be affected in acute renal failure, but potassium remains the most critical electrolyte to monitor in this condition.

A. Urine specific gravity 1.035. B. BUN 19 mg/dL. C. Hematocrit 44.9%. D. Sodium 155 mEq/L.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Sodium 155 mEq/L. Choice A rationale:

A urine specific gravity of 1.035 indicates concentrated urine and is consistent with fluid volume deficit. However, it is not the most specific finding for this condition.

Choice B rationale:

A BUN (blood urea nitrogen) level of 19 mg/dL can be a normal value. It is within the reference range (usually around 7-20 mg/dL) and does not provide specific information about fluid volume deficit.

Choice C rationale:

A hematocrit of 44.9% can also be within the normal range for some individuals, and while it can be elevated in cases of fluid volume deficit, it is not as sensitive as other parameters for detecting this condition.

Choice D rationale:
This is the correct answer because a sodium level of 155 mEq/L is elevated and indicates hypernatremia, which is associated with fluid volume deficit. Hypernatremia occurs when there is a relative lack of water in relation to the sodium concentration in the blood, and it can lead to dehydration

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A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide. Which of the following results should the nurse identify as the priority finding?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is admitting a patient who was diagnosed with acute renal failure. Which electrolyte should the nurse expect to be most affected with this disorder?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has fluid volume deficit. The nurse would expect which of the following findings?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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