The nurse discovers that an older client with no history of cardiac or renal disease has an elevated serum magnesium level. To further investigate the cause of this electrolyte imbalance, what information is most important for the nurse to obtain from the client's medical history?

Genetically inherited disorders of family members.

Frequency of laxative use for chronic constipation.

Length and frequency of the client's tobacco use.

Ingestion of shellfish or fish oil capsules daily.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A) Incorrect- Genetically inherited disorders of family members: While a family history of certain disorders might provide some insight, it is not typically the primary cause of elevated serum magnesium levels in an older adult.
B) Correct- Elevated serum magnesium levels are commonly associated with chronic laxative use, especially those containing magnesium-based compounds. Laxatives can lead to excessive magnesium intake, causing hypermagnesemia.
C. Incorrect- Smoking is not a common cause of elevated serum magnesium levels.

D. Incorrect- While dietary sources can contribute to magnesium intake, chronic laxative use is a more likely cause in this context.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. This task is beyond the scope of practice for a UAP. Calling the pharmacy to obtain medications requires clinical judgment and understanding of medication administration, which is the responsibility of licensed nursing personnel. B. This task requires assessment skills, which are beyond the scope of practice for a UAP. Determining a client's need for assistance with mobility requires clinical judgment. C. This task is appropriate to delegate to a UAP. It involves transporting an item from one location to another, which does not require clinical judgment or assessment. D. This task requires assessment skills and clinical judgment, which are beyond the scope of practice for a UAP. Evaluating a client's urinary catheter involves assessing for patency and signs of complications, which should be done by a licensed nurse.

A. Sloughing tissue around wound edges. B. Change in the quality of the peripheral pulses. C. Weeping serosanguineous fluid from wounds. D. Loss of sensation to the left lower extremity. E. Complaint of increased pain and pressure.

Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]

Explanation

These findings suggest potential complications and compromise to the client's circulation and nerve function, which require immediate attention.

Changes in the quality of peripheral pulses indicate alterations in blood flow and may suggest vascular compromise or decreased perfusion to the affected areas. This finding requires immediate intervention to prevent further damage and ensure adequate blood supply to the extremities.

Loss of sensation to the left lower extremity can be indicative of nerve injury or impaired peripheral nerve function. It is important to assess for nerve damage and address it promptly to prevent complications and maximize the client's recovery.

Complaints of increased pain and pressure are concerning because they may indicate the development of compartment syndrome, a serious complication in which pressure within the muscles and tissues builds up to dangerous levels. Prompt intervention is necessary to relieve the pressure and prevent tissue damage.

While sloughing tissue around wound edges and weeping serosanguineous fluid from wounds are important assessment findings in the context of burn care, they do not require immediate intervention compared to the findings mentioned above. These findings should still be addressed and managed appropriately, but they are not considered immediate emergencies.

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The nurse discovers that an older client with no history of cardiac or renal disease has an elevated serum magnesium level. To further investigate the cause of this electrolyte imbalance, what information is most important for the nurse to obtain from the client's medical history?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which instruction should the nurse delegate to an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP)?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

When caring for a client with full-thickness burns to both lower extremities, which assessment finding(s) warrant immediate intervention by the nurse? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer is ["B","D","E"]

Explanation

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