During a home visit, a client informs the nurse about feeling like the heart is skipping beats. When reviewing the client's record, the nurse notes that the client is taking hydrochlorothiazide. Based on these assessment data, the nurse plans to obtain a blood sample to check for which condition?
Hypokalemia.
Hyponatremia
Hyperphosphatemia.
Hypermagnesemia.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hypokalemia: Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that can cause potassium loss through increased urine production. A common side effect of thiazide diuretics is hypokalemia, which can lead to symptoms such as palpitations or the sensation of the heart skipping beats. Therefore, it is crucial to check the client’s potassium levels to determine if hypokalemia is contributing to the client's symptoms.
B. Hyponatremia: While thiazide diuretics can affect sodium levels, hypokalemia is more directly associated with the symptoms described. Hyponatremia (low sodium levels) might also occur but is less commonly linked to the symptom of a skipped heartbeat compared to hypokalemia.
C. Hyperphosphatemia: Hydrochlorothiazide is not known to cause significant changes in phosphate levels, and hyperphosphatemia is not typically associated with the sensation of skipped heartbeats.
D. Hypermagnesemia: This condition, which involves elevated magnesium levels, is not a common side effect of hydrochlorothiazide. Hypokalemia is a more relevant concern for the symptoms described.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Expresses that they cannot get enough air to breathe: While this is concerning, it is less specific than a respiratory rate finding for opioid overdose.
B. Respiratory rate of 7 breaths/minute: This indicates severe respiratory depression, a critical sign of opioid overdose, which necessitates immediate administration of naloxone.
C. Intercostal retractions and bilateral wheezing on auscultation: These signs suggest respiratory distress but do not directly indicate an opioid overdose.
D. Pulse oximeter reading of 89% on room air: While low, this reading does not specifically indicate opioid overdose unless accompanied by respiratory depression.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Alternate the use of each nostril when administering the nasal spray each day: Alternating nostrils can help reduce local irritation and rhinitis associated with the use of nasal spray medications. This practice allows each nostril to recover and reduces the risk of continuous irritation from the spray.
B. Do not lie down within thirty minutes of use of the nasal spray: While this can help ensure the medication is absorbed properly, it is not specifically aimed at reducing rhinitis. It is more important to manage irritation by alternating nostrils.
C. Use a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) PRN to reduce any inflammation that may occur: NSAIDs might not be suitable for everyone, and using them could mask symptoms or lead to additional side effects. They are not a primary strategy for managing rhinitis caused by nasal spray use.
D. Take an over-the-counter antihistamine with each daily dose of nasal spray: Antihistamines are not typically used to manage rhinitis caused by nasal sprays. Additionally, combining medications should be done cautiously and usually under medical advice.
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