For a client with diabetes mellitus, which new lab finding is the greatest concern?

Potassium 5.0 mEq/L.

Creatinine 4.4 mg/dL.

Hemoglobin 10.7 g/dL.

Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) 22 mg/dL.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Choice A Reason
A potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L is at the upper limit of the normal range, which is typically between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L. While this level should be monitored, especially in the context of diabetes where the patient may be at risk for hyperkalemia due to potential kidney issues, it is not immediately alarming¹.

Choice B Reason
A creatinine level of 4.4 mg/dL is significantly higher than the normal range of 0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL for males and 0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL for females. This indicates severe renal impairment or kidney failure, which is a serious complication of diabetes mellitus. Immediate intervention is required to address this critical issue¹.

Choice C Reason
A hemoglobin level of 10.7 g/dL is slightly below the normal range for adults, which is generally 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL for males and 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL for females. This could indicate mild anemia, which can be a complication of diabetes but is not as immediately concerning as a high creatinine level¹.

Choice D Reason
A Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) level of 22 mg/dL is within the normal range, which is typically between 7 and 20 mg/dL. This level does not indicate immediate concern and is not as critical as the elevated creatinine level¹.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

Choice A Reason
Using an antiemetic one hour after administration of methotrexate is not a standard recommendation. Antiemetics are typically used to prevent nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy and are taken before or at the time of methotrexate administration, not afterward.

Choice B Reason
Drinking 2-3 liters of water per day is important for patients taking methotrexate to prevent kidney damage by ensuring adequate hydration and facilitating the excretion of the drug¹. Methotrexate can be nephrotoxic, and proper hydration helps to mitigate this risk.

Choice C Reason
Rinsing the mouth with an alcohol-based mouthwash is not recommended for patients taking methotrexate. Alcohol can cause drying and irritation, which might exacerbate any mouth sores caused by methotrexate. Instead, patients should use a gentle, non-alcoholic mouthwash to maintain oral hygiene.

Choice D Reason
Taking methotrexate with an NSAID is not advised without specific medical guidance. NSAIDs can increase the toxicity of methotrexate by displacing it from protein-binding sites and reducing its renal clearance, potentially leading to increased side effects.

A. Mandated activities. B. Visitor restrictions. C. Structured programming. D. Peer pressure.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Mandated activities are part of a therapeutic milieu, but they are not the primary element that contributes to the stability of a client with schizophrenia. While these activities provide a routine, they do not encompass the comprehensive support system that structured programming offers.

Choice B reason:
Visitor restrictions can be a component of a therapeutic milieu, particularly in inpatient settings, to ensure a safe and controlled environment. However, this is not typically what is missing in the home environment that leads to decompensation.

Choice C reason:
Structured programming is a key element of the therapeutic milieu that provides a stable and predictable environment, which is often lacking at home. This structure includes scheduled therapy sessions, social interactions, and activities that are designed to improve coping skills and social functioning. The consistency and predictability of structured programming can significantly benefit individuals with schizophrenia, helping them maintain functional stability.

Choice D reason:
Peer pressure is not a therapeutic aspect of the milieu. In fact, peer pressure can sometimes be negative. However, positive peer interactions and support are important in a therapeutic setting, as they can provide encouragement and a sense of community.

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For a client with diabetes mellitus, which new lab finding is the greatest concern?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

What instruction for oral administration of methotrexate should the nurse include when teaching a client diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client diagnosed with schizophrenia functions well during hospitalization but decompensates after discharge. What does the therapeutic milieu provide that may be missing in the home environment?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The nurse would assess for which clinical manifestations in a client suspected of having diabetic ketoacidosis? (Select all that apply)

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