The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome who is receiving fluid replacement therapy with normal saline at 250 mL per hour along with a continuous insulin infusion. What potential complications of this treatment will the nurse monitor the patient for? (Select All That Apply)
Ketoacidosis
Pulmonary edema
Atelectasis
Hypoglycemia
Hypokalemia
Correct Answer : B,D,E
Choice A reason: Ketoacidosis is not a typical complication of hyperglycemic hyperosmolar syndrome (HHS) treatment. HHS usually occurs without significant ketoacidosis, and the focus is on managing hyperglycemia and dehydration.
Choice B reason: Pulmonary edema is a potential complication of rapid fluid replacement therapy. The increased fluid volume can overwhelm the heart's ability to pump effectively, leading to fluid accumulation in the lungs.
Choice C reason: Atelectasis is not a common complication of HHS treatment. It is more related to lung collapse or infection rather than fluid or insulin therapy.
Choice D reason: Hypoglycemia is a potential complication of continuous insulin infusion. Close monitoring of blood glucose levels is necessary to prevent blood sugar from dropping too low during treatment.
Choice E reason: Hypokalemia is a potential complication of insulin therapy. Insulin promotes the uptake of potassium into cells, which can reduce serum potassium levels. Monitoring and managing potassium levels is important during HHS treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Potassium supplements can actually be important for patients on diuretic therapy, especially if they are taking loop diuretics like furosemide, which can cause potassium loss. However, it is important to monitor potassium levels and follow the physician's guidance on supplement use.
Choice B reason: Instructing the patient to take diuretics at bedtime is not recommended. Diuretics should be taken in the morning to avoid frequent urination during the night, which can disrupt sleep.
Choice C reason: Notifying the physician if weight increases by three pounds in one week is a key instruction for patients with heart failure. Rapid weight gain can indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure, requiring prompt medical evaluation and adjustment of treatment.
Choice D reason: Administering diuretics in the morning and notifying the physician of decreased urine output is important, but the focus on notifying the physician about significant weight gain provides a more specific and actionable guideline for managing heart failure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: The lab results pH 7.48, PaCO2 30, HCO3 24 indicate respiratory alkalosis. Hyperventilation leads to excessive loss of carbon dioxide (PaCO2), resulting in an increase in pH (alkaline). This is consistent with pulmonary edema and hyperventilation due to heart failure.
Choice B reason: The lab results pH 7.41, PaCO2 45, HCO3 29 indicate a normal pH with compensated metabolic alkalosis. This is not consistent with hyperventilation in pulmonary edema.
Choice C reason: The lab results pH 7.31, PaCO2 34, HCO3 18 indicate metabolic acidosis with partial compensation. This is not typical for a patient with hyperventilation and pulmonary edema.
Choice D reason: The lab results pH 7.25, PaCO2 59, HCO3 30 indicate respiratory acidosis with partial compensation. This would be consistent with hypoventilation rather than hyperventilation.
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.
