The nurse is caring for the patient with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The patient's serum potassium level is critically low, which places the patient at risk for which complication?
Select one:
Increased edema
Seizures
Respiratory depression
Cardiac Dysrhythmias
The Correct Answer is D
A. Edema is more commonly due to fluid overload and impaired renal excretion of sodium and water, not primarily caused by low potassium levels.
B. Seizures are more typically linked to electrolyte imbalances such as low sodium or low calcium, not potassium.
C. Respiratory depression is more commonly associated with opioid use, high magnesium, or neuromuscular suppression, not hypokalemia.
D. Critically low potassium (hypokalemia) impairs normal cardiac conduction and increases the risk for life-threatening arrhythmias, making this the most dangerous and priority complication to monitor for.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["21"]
Explanation
To calculate the drops per minute:
Drops per minute = (Total volume × Drop factor) ÷ Time in minutes
= (1000 mL × 10 gtt/mL) ÷ (8 × 60 minutes)
= 10,000 ÷ 480
≈ 20.83 → 21 gtt/min when rounded to the nearest whole number.
Answer: 21 gtt/min
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Current guidelines recommend a Pap test combined with HPV testing every 5 years for women aged 30 to 65 years.
B. Colonoscopy screening is recommended every 10 years, starting at age 45 (or earlier with risk factors).
C. While some organizations suggest starting mammograms at age 40 or 45, biennial mammograms are generally recommended beginning at age 50. Starting at age 45 may be considered depending on personal and family risk.
D. Fecal occult blood testing is recommended annually, not every 3 years, as part of colorectal cancer screening.
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.