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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. 0.9% sodium chloride: Normal saline (0.9% sodium chloride) is the standard solution that can be administered with blood products. It is isotonic and does not cause hemolysis or alter the structure of red blood cells.
B. Lactated Ringers solution: Lactated Ringers solution is not used with blood products due to the potential for hemolysis when calcium is present, which can interfere with the clotting cascade and affect blood cell integrity.
C. 5% dextrose/0.2% sodium chloride: Dextrose solutions should not be used with blood components, as they can cause red blood cells to hemolyze, leading to hemolysis and complications in transfusion.
D. 5% dextrose/0.45% sodium chloride: This solution contains dextrose, which can cause red blood cell hemolysis and should not be used with blood products.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increased bowel sounds: Hypokalemia typically causes decreased bowel activity, leading to constipation or paralytic ileus, rather than increased bowel sounds.
B. Reports of fatigue: Fatigue is a hallmark symptom of hypokalemia due to impaired cellular and muscle function.
C. Positive Trousseau's sign: This is associated with hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia.
D. Reports of numbness in the feet: This is more commonly linked with neuropathy or hypocalcemia, not hypokalemia.
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