The nurse is caring for a child with acute renal failure. Which clinical manifestation should the nurse recognize as a sign of hyperkalemia?
Cardiac arrhythmia
Seizure
Dyspnea
Oliguria
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason:
Cardiac arrhythmia is a primary clinical manifestation of hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia, defined as an elevated level of potassium in the blood, can significantly affect the electrical activity of the heart. This can lead to various types of arrhythmias, including bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, and even cardiac arrest1. The presence of arrhythmias is a critical indicator of hyperkalemia and requires immediate medical attention to prevent life-threatening complications.
Choice B reason:
Seizures are not typically associated with hyperkalemia2. While severe electrolyte imbalances can potentially lead to neurological symptoms, seizures are more commonly linked to conditions such as hyponatremia (low sodium levels) or hypocalcemia (low calcium levels). Therefore, seizures are not a primary sign of hyperkalemia.
Choice C reason:
Dyspnea, or difficulty breathing, can occur in various medical conditions, including heart failure and respiratory disorders. While hyperkalemia can lead to muscle weakness and fatigue, which might indirectly affect breathing, dyspnea is not a primary clinical manifestation of hyperkalemia. The main concern with hyperkalemia is its effect on cardiac function.
Choice D reason:
Oliguria, or reduced urine output, is a symptom of acute renal failure but not specifically indicative of hyperkalemia. While acute renal failure can lead to hyperkalemia due to the kidneys’ inability to excrete potassium, oliguria itself is not a direct sign of hyperkalemia. The focus should be on the cardiac effects of elevated potassium levels
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is b. Preadolescent growth spurt
Choice A reason:
Idiopathic scoliosis is not typically noticeable when a toddler begins to walk. At this stage, the spine is still developing, and any curvature is usually not significant enough to be detected. Idiopathic scoliosis most commonly becomes noticeable during periods of rapid growth, which occur later in childhood.
Choice B Reason:
The preadolescent growth spurt is the period when idiopathic scoliosis becomes most noticeable. This is because the rapid growth during this time can exacerbate the curvature of the spine. Idiopathic scoliosis often becomes apparent between the ages of 10 and 18 years, when children experience significant growth spurts.
Choice C Reason:
Late adolescence is not the period when idiopathic scoliosis becomes most noticeable. By this time, most children have completed their major growth spurts, and any scoliosis would likely have been detected earlier. The condition is typically identified during the preadolescent growth spurt.
Choice D Reason:
The newborn period is not associated with the development of idiopathic scoliosis. While congenital scoliosis can be present at birth, idiopathic scoliosis develops later in childhood, particularly during periods of rapid growth.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Rye and oats: Rye contains gluten, which must be avoided by individuals with celiac disease. Oats, while naturally gluten-free, can often be contaminated with gluten during processing. Therefore, they should be introduced cautiously and only if labeled gluten-free.
Choice B Reason:
Wheat and corn: Wheat is a major source of gluten and must be strictly avoided by those with celiac disease. Corn, on the other hand, is naturally gluten-free and safe for consumption. However, since wheat is included in this option, it is not suitable for a gluten-free diet.
Choice C Reason:
Rice and soy: Both rice and soy are naturally gluten-free and safe for individuals with celiac disease. They are excellent alternatives to gluten-containing grains and provide essential nutrients.
Choice D Reason:
Barley and millet grain: Barley contains gluten and must be avoided by those with celiac disease. Millet is naturally gluten-free and safe for consumption. However, since barley is included in this option, it is not suitable for a gluten-free diet.
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