A patient who is taking a potassium-wasting diuretic for the treatment of hypertension reports generalized weakness. Which action is appropriate for the nurse to take?

Ask the patient about loose stools

Suggest that the healthcare provider order a basic metabolic panel

Assess for facial muscle spasms

Call for a rapid response team

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Asking the patient about loose stools is important as it can help identify possible causes of fluid and electrolyte imbalances. However, this question alone would not be the immediate or primary action to take in response to generalized weakness.

Choice B reason: Suggesting that the healthcare provider order a basic metabolic panel is the most appropriate action. Potassium-wasting diuretics can lead to hypokalemia, which can cause symptoms like generalized weakness. A basic metabolic panel will provide information on the patient's electrolyte levels, including potassium, and help determine if the weakness is due to an electrolyte imbalance. This allows for appropriate intervention to correct the imbalance and prevent further complications.

Choice C reason: Assessing for facial muscle spasms is relevant because hypokalemia can cause muscle cramps and spasms. However, it does not address the root cause of the weakness and does not lead to immediate intervention.

Choice D reason: Calling for a rapid response team is generally reserved for situations where the patient is experiencing acute, life-threatening symptoms requiring immediate intervention. Generalized weakness in the context of a patient on a potassium-wasting diuretic does not usually necessitate such an urgent response unless it progresses to more severe symptoms.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason: A blood pressure of 128/76 mm Hg is within the target range for a patient with hypertension, indicating that the current therapy is effectively managing the condition. This reading is below the generally accepted threshold for hypertension, which is 140/90 mm Hg.

Choice B reason: A blood pressure of 148/78 mm Hg is above the target range for hypertension management. This reading suggests that the patient may need an adjustment in their therapy to better control their blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Choice C reason: A blood pressure of 98/56 mm Hg is too low and may indicate hypotension, which can be a concern, especially if the patient experiences symptoms like dizziness or fainting. This reading suggests that the patient's therapy may need to be adjusted to avoid excessively lowering blood pressure.

Choice D reason: A blood pressure of 128/92 mm Hg shows an elevated diastolic pressure, which is above the target range. This indicates that the patient's hypertension is not fully controlled, and adjustments in therapy may be needed to bring both systolic and diastolic pressures within the desired range.

A. Improve public transportation to the clinic B. Obtain low-cost medications for clinic patients C. Teach clinic staff about cultural health beliefs D. Update equipment and supplies at the clinic

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Improving public transportation to the clinic would indeed make it easier for residents to access healthcare services. However, this strategy alone does not directly address the cultural and specific health needs of the Hispanic community.

Choice B reason: Obtaining low-cost medications for clinic patients can alleviate some financial burdens and improve access to necessary treatments. While this is beneficial, it does not tackle the root of health disparities related to cultural differences and health beliefs.

Choice C reason: Teaching clinic staff about cultural health beliefs is crucial for reducing health care disparities and promoting health equity. Understanding the cultural background, health beliefs, and practices of the Hispanic community allows healthcare providers to deliver more culturally competent and patient-centered care, building trust and improving health outcomes.

Choice D reason: Updating equipment and supplies at the clinic can enhance the quality of care provided. However, without addressing the cultural competency of the healthcare staff, this strategy does not directly impact health equity or reduce disparities specific to the Hispanic community.

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A patient who is taking a potassium-wasting diuretic for the treatment of hypertension reports generalized weakness. Which action is appropriate for the nurse to take?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which blood pressure (BP) finding by the nurse indicates that no changes in therapy are needed for a 48-year-old patient with newly diagnosed hypertension?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

The nurse works in a clinic located in a community where many of the residents are Hispanic. Which strategy, if implemented by the nurse, would decrease health care disparities and promote health equity for this community?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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