Patient MK is admited with Atrial Fibrillation an irregular heart rhythm. She is also complaining of muscle cramps to her legs and that she started a new diuretic last week. What lab value are you most likely to find on her Complete Metabolic Panel?
Mg2 – 20 mEq/L
Na+ - 123 mEq/L
Ca2 – 10.0 mg/dl
K+ - - 3.1 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is D
Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia, and diuretics are often used in the management of patients with this condition to help control fluid balance. However, diuretics can cause electrolyte imbalances, especially hypokalaemia (low potassium levels), which can lead to muscle cramps and other complications.
A Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) is a blood test that measures various electrolytes, glucose, and other important components. Among the options given, the most likely lab value to be abnormal in Patient MK's case is a low level of potassium (K+), which is consistent with her symptoms and diuretic use. Option d, K+ -
-
- mEq/L, is the correct option as it represents a low level of potassium, which is defined as a value less than 3.5 mEq/L.
Option a, Mg2 – 20 mEq/L, represents high magnesium levels, which are not typically associated with diuretic use or muscle cramps. Option b, Na+ - 123 mEq/L, represents low sodium levels, which are less likely to occur with diuretic use, and are typically associated with other conditions. Option c, Ca2 – 10.0 mg/dl, represents normal calcium levels and is not typically affected by diuretic use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
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Explanation
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Correct Answer is B
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