The nurse is assessing a client who exhibits positive Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
What laboratory value would validate these clinical findings? A serum:
potassium 4.2 mEq/L
phosphate 3.0 mg/dL
magnesium 1.8 mEq/L
calcium 6.9 mg/dL
calcium 6.9 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale: A potassium level of 4.2 mEq/L is within the normal range and would not validate Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
Choice B rationale: A phosphate level of 3.0 mg/dL is within the normal range and would not validate Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
Choice C rationale: A magnesium level of 1.8 mEq/L is within the normal range and would not validate Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.
Choice D rationale: A calcium level of 6.9 mg/dL is below the normal range and could validate Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Changing the soiled dressing carefully is important but not specifically associated with caring for a Penrose drain.
Choice B rationale: Pinning the drain to the dressing is not typically done; securing the drain and preventing tension are important.
Choice C rationale: Allowing the drain reservoir to fill completely before emptying it is a crucial nursing action associated with caring for a Penrose drain.
Choice D rationale: Maintaining the negative pressure of the drain is not applicable to a Penrose drain, which relies on gravity drainage.

Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Poor tissue perfusion from circulatory insufficiency can affect oxygenation, but fluid in the lungs primarily impacts gas exchange at the alveolar level.
Choice B rationale: Decreased diffusion of oxygen from the alveoli to the blood is a major factor affecting oxygenation when fluid is present in the lungs.
Choice C rationale: Lowered oxygen carrying capacity can affect oxygenation but is not the primary concern in the presence of fluid in the lungs.
Choice D rationale: Decreased concentration of oxygen in the air is not the primary factor affecting oxygenation in a client with fluid in the lungs.
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