A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a patient receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The glucose is 72 mg/dL, chloride is 100 mEq/L, sodium is 138 mEq/L, and potassium is 3.0 mEq/L. What action should the nurse plan to take?
Administer glucagon IM.
Discontinue the TPN infusion.
Request a potassium replacement.
Check the patient for a positive Chvostek’s sign.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is Choice C.
Step 1 is to interpret the laboratory values. The glucose level is within the normal range (7099 mg/dL). The chloride level is within the normal range (97-107 mEq/L). The sodium level is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L). However, the potassium level is low (normal range is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L)89101112.
Step 2 is to plan the action based on the interpretation. Given the low potassium level, the nurse should plan to request a potassium replacement
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Memory loss is not typically associated with inadequate dietary intake of fiber. Memory loss can be a symptom of various conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, or certain vitamin deficiencies, but it is not directly linked to fiber intake.
Choice B rationale
Bleeding gums are not typically a symptom of inadequate dietary intake of fiber. Bleeding gums are more commonly associated with conditions such as gingivitis or vitamin C deficiency, not a lack of dietary fiber.
Choice C rationale
Constipation is the correct answer. Inadequate intake of dietary fiber can lead to constipation. Dietary fiber adds bulk to the diet and helps prevent constipation by promoting regular bowel movements.
Choice D rationale
Brittle hair is not typically a symptom of inadequate dietary intake of fiber. Brittle hair can be a sign of malnutrition or lack of certain nutrients like protein, but it is not directly linked to fiber intake.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Changing gloves between tasks on the same client is a key infection control practice. This prevents cross-contamination between different body sites and reduces the risk of spreading infection.
Choice B rationale
Washing hands with alcohol-based hand rubs when caring for a client who has Clostridium difficile is not recommended. Clostridium difficile spores are not killed by alcohol-based hand rubs. Handwashing with soap and water is more effective.
Choice C rationale
Using alcohol-based hand rubs before administering eye drops for a client is a good practice, but it is not the most important information to reinforce. Hand hygiene is crucial in all aspects of patient care to prevent the spread of infection.
Choice D rationale
Keeping artificial nails trimmed short is a good practice, but it is not the most important information to reinforce. Artificial nails can harbor bacteria and other pathogens, increasing the risk of infection transmission.
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