The nurse is caring for a client with a critically high potassium level. The client has received sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate). The nurse determines the medication's effectiveness if the client's repeat serum potassium level is:
4.9 mEq/L
5.5 mEq/L
6.2 mEq/L
5.8 meq/L
The Correct Answer is A
Rationale:
A. A potassium level of 4.9 mEq/L is within the normal reference range (typically 3.5–5.0 mEq/L), indicating that the hyperkalemia has been successfully corrected.
B. A potassium level of 5.5 mEq/L is still above normal and does not suggest full effectiveness of the treatment.
C. A potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L remains critically high and indicates that the medication was not effective.
D. A potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L is still elevated and may continue to pose cardiac risks, suggesting partial or no effectiveness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Kussmaul's respirations are deep, rapid breathing that occurs as a respiratory compensation to blow off CO₂ and raise pH during metabolic acidosis.
B. Decreased blood pressure is a clinical sign but not a compensatory mechanism for metabolic acidosis.
C. Reduced abdominal distention is unrelated to acid-base compensation.
D. Increased urinary output may occur but is not the primary compensatory response for metabolic acidosis.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Respiratory acidosis results from hypoventilation (respiratory rate of 6 breaths/min), leading to CO₂ retention and decreased blood pH. Cyanosis also indicates poor oxygenation, supporting this diagnosis.
B. Metabolic acidosis typically results from renal failure, diarrhea, or diabetic ketoacidosis, not directly from low respiratory rate.
C. Respiratory alkalosis is caused by hyperventilation, not hypoventilation.
D. Metabolic alkalosis is usually caused by vomiting or diuretic use and is not associated with decreased respiratory rate or cyanosis.
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