One week after beginning a new prescription for potassium chloride, a client tells the practical nurse (PN) that there is tingling and numbness in the feet and hands. Which action should the PN take?
Notify the unit charge nurse of the client's reported symptoms immediately.
Reassure the client that the supplement will soon relieve those symptoms.
Explain that a calcium supplement may be necessary.
Encourage the client to decrease the intake of dietary sodium.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Notify the unit charge nurse of the client's reported symptoms immediately: Tingling and numbness can be signs of hyperkalemia, a serious and potentially life-threatening complication from potassium supplementation. Immediate reporting is necessary for prompt evaluation and intervention to prevent cardiac or neuromuscular complications.
B. Reassure the client that the supplement will soon relieve those symptoms: Symptoms like tingling and numbness are not expected side effects of potassium therapy. Reassurance without investigation could delay necessary medical treatment and worsen the client’s condition.
C. Explain that a calcium supplement may be necessary: Calcium supplementation is not the standard response to symptoms of potassium imbalance. Without a clear diagnosis, recommending additional supplements could complicate the clinical situation further.
D. Encourage the client to decrease the intake of dietary sodium: Although reducing sodium is generally beneficial for health, it does not address the acute issue of possible potassium imbalance causing neuromuscular symptoms. Immediate clinical evaluation takes priority.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Healthcare provider notified, client refuses to have blood glucose taken: While this option indicates that the healthcare provider was informed and that the client refused, it does not fully capture the client’s expressed reason for refusal. Complete and precise documentation includes the client’s statement in their own words.
B. Blood glucose not obtained because client no longer wants to have finger stick: This phrasing is too casual and lacks the specificity needed for legal and clinical documentation. It does not reflect the client’s exact words or demonstrate that the healthcare provider was informed about the situation.
C. Refused finger stick and states, "My finger is sore and test useless." Healthcare provider notified: This option best meets documentation standards by including the client's direct quote, ensuring accurate and objective recording of the refusal, and noting that the healthcare provider was informed. It provides a clear, detailed account suitable for medical and legal purposes.
D. Healthcare provider notified that client is uncooperative and irritable, glucose level not assessed: Describing the client as uncooperative and irritable is subjective and could be considered judgmental. Proper documentation should remain objective, focusing on the client’s stated concerns rather than labeling their behavior.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Explanation
- 1. 21 to 24%: The client’s fat intake for the three days totals approximately 69 grams of fat (24g + 22g + 23g), which, when multiplied by 9 calories per gram, equals about 621 calories from fat. Given the total caloric intake of 3,200–3,310 calories per day, fat constitutes approximately 21% to 24% of the total caloric intake, which is within the recommended range for a balanced diet.
- 2. has an appropriate fat intake for calories: The fat intake of 21% to 24% of total calories aligns with the general dietary recommendation, which is for 20% to 35% of total calories to come from fat. Therefore, the client’s fat intake is appropriate and does not require any adjustments.
- 1. 26 to 28%: This percentage would be too high for the client’s daily fat intake. To reach 26% to 28% of calories from fat, the client would need to consume more grams of fat. Based on the actual fat intake (69g), this range is not appropriate.
- 1. 14 to 19%: A fat intake of 14% to 19% would be considered lower than the recommended range, and would suggest the client is consuming too little fat for a balanced diet. Given the actual fat intake, this percentage is not accurate.
- 2. should increase his fat intake: Given that the client’s fat intake is already within the recommended 20%–35% range, there's no need for the client to increase his fat intake. Therefore, this option is not appropriate.
- 2. should reduce his fat intake: Reducing the client’s fat intake is not necessary, as the fat intake falls within the recommended range. A reduction in fat would lower the total percentage of calories from fat below the suggested 20%–35% range, which could be harmful for overall nutrition.
- 2. should decrease his caloric intake: There’s no indication that the client is consuming an excessive amount of calories based on the information provided. His calorie intake seems appropriate for his needs. Decreasing caloric intake isn't necessary, especially when his fat intake is within the normal range.
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