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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: 0.45% sodium chloride is a hypotonic solution, which is not ideal for rapidly replacing fluid volume in patients with low blood pressure due to severe diarrhea. Hypotonic solutions can cause fluid to move into cells rather than staying in the vascular space, potentially worsening hypotension.
Choice B reason: 0.9% sodium chloride, also known as normal saline, is an isotonic solution. It is the best choice for rapidly replacing fluid volume in patients with low blood pressure. Isotonic solutions stay in the vascular space and help restore circulating blood volume and blood pressure without causing fluid shifts that can lead to cellular edema or dehydration.
Choice C reason: 5% dextrose in 0.9% sodium chloride is a hypertonic solution, which might not be the most appropriate for initial rapid fluid resuscitation. Hypertonic solutions can draw fluid into the vascular space from the interstitial and intracellular spaces, potentially leading to rapid changes in fluid balance and electrolyte shifts.
Choice D reason: 5% dextrose in 0.45% sodium chloride is also a hypertonic solution but with a hypotonic component (0.45% sodium chloride). This combination is not typically used for rapid fluid resuscitation because it can cause fluid shifts that are less predictable and may complicate the patient's electrolyte balance and hydration status.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: A nursing assistant is not typically qualified to verify and administer blood products. Their role primarily involves providing basic patient care under the supervision of licensed nurses.
Choice B reason: A physician's assistant (PA) is a licensed medical professional who can perform many tasks, but verifying and administering blood products is generally within the nursing scope of practice. The PA may assist but is not the primary person for this task.
Choice C reason: The unit secretary handles administrative tasks and coordination but is not involved in clinical tasks such as verifying and administering blood products.
Choice D reason: Another registered nurse (RN) is the appropriate team member to assist in checking a unit of packed red blood cells before administration. RNs are trained and qualified to perform this task, ensuring that the right blood type and unit are administered to the patient safely.
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