The client is receiving a liter of 0.9% sodium chloride with potassium chloride (KCI) 30 mEq IV to infuse over 4 hours. Which nursing action has the highest priority for this client?

Maintain continuous cardiac monitoring.

Monitor urinary output.

Check a serum potassium level postinfusion.

Obtain vital signs every 2 hours.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Potassium affects the electrical activity of the heart, and abnormal potassium levels can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias or other complications. Continuous cardiac monitoring is crucial when administering potassium chloride because it helps detect any arrhythmias or changes in heart function that might be caused by changes in potassium levels.
B. Monitoring urinary output is important because adequate urine output helps assess kidney function and ensures that potassium is being excreted properly. While monitoring urinary output is important, it is secondary to immediate cardiac monitoring during the infusion.
C. Checking the serum potassium level after the infusion is important to confirm that potassium levels have normalized or stayed within the target range. However, this action is not as immediate as continuous cardiac monitoring during the infusion.
D. Regular monitoring of vital signs is important to assess overall client stability and detect any systemic changes. However, obtaining vital signs every 2 hours might not be as critical as continuous cardiac monitoring when administering potassium.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Hemoglobin (Hgb) and Hematocrit (Hct) are important indicators of anemia, which can be caused by nutritional deficiencies such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiencies. For an older adult female, the reference range for hemoglobin is 12 to 16 g/dL, and the hematocrit range is 37% to 47%. A hemoglobin of 11.8 g/dL and a hematocrit of 34% are below the normal range, indicating potential anemia, which could be related to nutritional deficiencies.
B. Weight loss or being underweight can be a sign of nutritional deficiency, particularly if it is unintentional. However, this option lacks specific details about the extent of weight loss and its relation to other indicators. Weight alone does not provide complete information about nutritional deficiencies without additional context, such as changes in weight over time or body composition.
C. A decrease in lean body mass can be indicative of malnutrition or a prolonged deficiency in protein or overall caloric intake. While it is an important indicator of nutritional status, it reflects long-term changes and may not immediately show acute deficiencies.
D. Serum albumin and serum transferrin are biomarkers of nutritional status. The reference range for serum albumin is 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL, and for serum transferrin, it is 250 to 380 mg/dL. A serum albumin level of 3 g/dL and a serum transferrin level of 180 mg/dL are both below the normal range, indicating possible malnutrition or protein deficiency.

A. Take an over-the-counter laxative every morning. B. Drink six to eight large glasses of water daily. C. Try using over-the-counter enemas when needed. D. Walk around the block or further every day.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. While over-the-counter laxatives can be effective for relieving constipation, they are typically recommended for short-term use or when dietary and lifestyle changes have not resolved the issue. Regular or frequent use of laxatives can lead to dependence and potentially worsen constipation over time.
B. Increasing water intake is a highly effective way to address constipation. Adequate hydration helps soften the stool, making it easier to pass. Drinking six to eight large glasses of water daily is a good strategy to promote regular bowel movements and prevent constipation.
C. Over-the-counter enemas can provide immediate relief from constipation but should not be used frequently. Enemas are more invasive and can cause discomfort or lead to dependency if used too often. They are typically recommended for occasional use rather than as a first-line solution for chronic constipation.
D. Regular physical activity, such as walking, can help stimulate bowel movements and alleviate constipation. Exercise promotes gut motility and can be an effective part of a comprehensive approach to managing constipation.

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The client is receiving a liter of 0.9% sodium chloride with potassium chloride (KCI) 30 mEq IV to infuse over 4 hours. Which nursing action has the highest priority for this client?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A client in the outpatient clinic reports experiencing hard, infrequent stools. Which instruction should the nurse provide this client?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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