Review the lab results in the chart tab
LAB
LAB |
Result |
Normal Range |
Potassium |
2.8 mEq/L |
3.5-5.3mEq/L |
Sodium |
133 mEq/L |
135-145 mEqL |
Chloride |
90 mEq/L |
97-107 mEqL |
Glucose |
200 mg/dL |
70mg/dL to 110mg/dL |
Magnesium |
2.5 mg/dL |
1.6-2.2 mg/dL |
Calcium |
8.0 mg/dL |
8.2-10.2 mg/dL: |
A client admitted to the Emergency Department (ED) and the cardiac monitor shows multifocal premature ventricular contractions (PVC's). Initial laboratory findings are as follows. The nurse recognizes that the client's PVC's are most likely caused by:
hypermagnesemia.
hypocalcemia.
hypokalemia,
hyperglycemia
The Correct Answer is C
A. Hypermagnesemia can cause bradycardia and hypotension, but it is less commonly associated with PVCs. This does not align with the lab results provided.
B. Hypocalcemia can cause arrhythmias, but it is not the most likely cause of PVCs in this case, considering other findings.
C. Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a known cause of PVCs. The patient's potassium level is 2.8 mEq/L, which is significantly low and most likely contributing to the PVCs.
D. Although hyperglycemia can affect cardiac function, it is less commonly linked to PVCs compared to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Counting the number of large squares between R-R intervals and dividing by 30 is not the correct method for estimating the ventricular rate on an ECG strip.
B. Printing a 1-minute ECG strip and counting the QRS complexes (option B) is accurate but unnecessary for a quick estimation.
C. The most common and efficient method for estimating the ventricular rate quickly is to count the number of QRS complexes in a 6-second strip (often marked by two dashed lines) and multiply by 10. This gives an estimate of the heart rate per minute.
D. Counting the number of small squares between QRS complexes and dividing by 1500 is the most accurate method but requires more time and precision than counting QRS complexes in 6 seconds.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypermagnesemia can cause bradycardia and hypotension, but it is less commonly associated with PVCs. This does not align with the lab results provided.
B. Hypocalcemia can cause arrhythmias, but it is not the most likely cause of PVCs in this case, considering other findings.
C. Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a known cause of PVCs. The patient's potassium level is 2.8 mEq/L, which is significantly low and most likely contributing to the PVCs.
D. Although hyperglycemia can affect cardiac function, it is less commonly linked to PVCs compared to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.