Exhibits

Click to highlight the assessment findings that require IMMEDIATE follow-up by the nurse.

The client is a 68-year-old with a history of diabetes, hypertension (HTN), coronary artery disease (CAD), and recently diagnosed with end-stage renal disease (ERSD). She has been on hemodialysis three times a week for one month and presents to the emergency department (ED) with:

• Fatigue
• Generalized weakness
• Muscle cramps
• Tingling sensation in her arms and legs
• Lightheadedness

She also reports having missed her scheduled dialysis for the past 2 days, coupled with complaints of nausea, poor appetite, and an inability to attend the dialysis sessions.

Initial Vital Signs:

• Blood Pressure: 146/82 mmHg
• Heart Rate: 114 bpm
• Respiratory Rate: 18 bpm
• SpO₂: 98% on room air
• Temperature: 98.2 °F (36.8 °C) orally

Choice A rationale:
Cocaine is a stimulant and typically leads to increased heart rate (tachycardia) and respiratory rate (tachypnea). Bradycardia (slow heart rate) and bradypnea (slow respiratory rate) would be atypical findings with cocaine use.

Choice B rationale:
Cocaine is a stimulant drug that typically produces effects such as increased heart rate, increased blood pressure, stimulation, euphoria, and dilated pupils. These physiological and psychological effects are common when someone has used cocaine.

Choice C rationale:
While cocaine use can cause hallucinations and paranoia during intoxication or withdrawal, these symptoms are not typically the primary manifestations. The most common initial effects are stimulation and increased alertness.
Hallucinations and delusions may occur with substance use, but they are not the most expected or specific findings for cocaine use.

Choice D rationale:
Cocaine use is associated with increased energy, euphoria, and heightened arousal. Lethargy and depression are more likely during the comedown phase or withdrawal from cocaine, rather than immediately after use.

Choice A rationale:
This is not a priority action for the nurse at this time. The nurse should first implement the ordered treatments for hyperkalemia and stabilize the client's condition before calling and giving a report to the receiving unit.

Choice B rationale:
Loop diuretics are medications that increase urine output and can lower potassium levels in mild cases of hyperkalemia. However, they are contraindicated in patients with ERSD who have oliguria or anuria (reduced or absent urine production). Loop diuretics can worsen renal function and fluid overload in these patients.

Choice C rationale:
Scheduling the client for hemodialysis is crucial, especially if the client has missed a scheduled dialysis session. Hemodialysis can help manage electrolyte imbalances and fluid overload.

Choice D rationale:
Checking the blood glucose level is important, especially in a client with a history of diabetes. Maintaining glycemic control is essential for overall health.

Choice E rationale:
Drawing a repeat potassium level is necessary to monitor the client's electrolyte status, especially given the ECG changes.

Choice F rationale:
Holding Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, is appropriate in this context, considering the client's elevated blood pressure and potential renal issues. It should be done under the guidance of the healthcare provider.

Choice G rationale:
Administering insulin, dextrose, and calcium gluconate can help manage hyperkalemia, which may be indicated by the ECG changes. Repeating the 12-lead EKG is important to assess the response to treatment and any changes in cardiac rhythm.