A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client and identifies a serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?
Lactulose
Acetylcysteine
Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate)
Triamterene
The Correct Answer is C
A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia levels, not for hyperkalemia.
B. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used for acetaminophen overdose or as a mucolytic agent, not for hyperkalemia.
C. Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate): Kayexalate is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium for potassium in the intestines, promoting the elimination of potassium through the stool. This is the correct treatment for a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L, which is dangerously high.
D. Triamterene: Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic and would worsen hyperkalemia, not treat it.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increased salivation: Increased salivation is not typically associated with hypernatremia.
B. Decreased level of consciousness: Hypernatremia can cause cellular dehydration, which can lead to neurological symptoms such as confusion, irritability, and decreased level of consciousness.
C. Hypertension: Although hypernatremia can cause fluid retention and contribute to increased blood pressure, the primary concern is neurological changes due to the effect of sodium on cell function.
D. Cool, clammy skin: Cool, clammy skin is more often seen with hypovolemic shock or other conditions like sepsis or hypothermia, not hypernatremia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Cardiac dysrhythmias: Hypokalemia impairs cardiac muscle function, potentially leading to arrhythmias such as ventricular tachycardia or premature ventricular contractions.
B. Hypoglycemia: Potassium does not directly cause hypoglycemia; its imbalance more commonly affects cardiac and neuromuscular function.
C. Hyperreflexia: Hypokalemia usually causes muscle weakness and diminished reflexes (hyporeflexia), not hyperreflexia.
D. Increased appetite: Hypokalemia does not typically affect appetite.
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