An older adult nursing home resident who has always been alert and oriented is now showing signs of dehydration and has become confused. Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely involved?

Hypercalcemia

Hypomagnesemia

Hyponatremia

Hypernatremia

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Hypercalcemia: Hypercalcemia may cause confusion but is less likely associated with dehydration.

B. Hypomagnesemia: This can cause neuromuscular symptoms but is less commonly linked to confusion in dehydration.

C. Hyponatremia: Low sodium levels disrupt brain cell function, leading to confusion and neurological symptoms, which are common in dehydrated older adults.

D. Hypernatremia: While dehydration may cause hypernatremia, it is less likely to present with confusion in this context compared to hyponatremia.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Hypertension: Low calcium levels are not typically associated with hypertension. In fact, hypocalcemia can lead to a variety of neurological symptoms such as muscle spasms and tetany.

B. Increased thirst: Increased thirst is not a direct symptom of hypocalcemia. It may be seen in diabetes or dehydration but not typically in hypocalcemia.

C. Muscle tetany: Hypocalcemia is a common result of thyroidectomy, especially if the parathyroid glands were affected during surgery. This condition can lead to muscle tetany, which involves involuntary muscle contractions or spasms.

D. Diaphoresis: Diaphoresis is not commonly associated with hypocalcemia. Sweating is more related to stress, pain, or fever.

A. Have the laboratory draw a blood sample for an erythrocyte sedimentation rate. B. Restrict fluid intake. C. Obtain a 12-lead ECG. D. Administer potassium gluconate 40 mEq orally.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Have the laboratory draw a blood sample for an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): ESR measures inflammation and is unrelated to hyperkalemia.

B. Restrict fluid intake: Fluid restriction is not appropriate for hyperkalemia unless specifically related to fluid overload or renal failure.

C. Obtain a 12-lead ECG: Hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias such as peaked T waves, widened QRS complexes, or asystole. ECG monitoring is essential.

D. Administer potassium gluconate 40 mEq orally: This would worsen hyperkalemia and is contraindicated.

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An older adult nursing home resident who has always been alert and oriented is now showing signs of dehydration and has become confused. Which electrolyte imbalance is most likely involved?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse reviewing the laboratory of a client who had a total thyroidectomy discovers that his calcium level is 7 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL). Which of the following client findings should the nurse expect?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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