The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a group of patients. Which value should be of most concern to the nurse?

Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L)

Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L)

Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL)

Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L)

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Sodium level 140 mEq/L (136-145 mEq/L): This sodium level is within the normal range and is not of concern.

B. Magnesium level 1.0 mEq/L (1.3-2.1 mEq/L): This value is below the normal range, indicating hypomagnesemia, which can cause serious complications such as arrhythmias, neuromuscular irritability, and seizures. This is the most concerning value.

C. Calcium level 10 mg/dL (9-10.5 mg/dL): This calcium level is within the normal range and is not concerning.

D. Potassium level 3.5 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L): This potassium level is at the low end of normal. While it is something to monitor, it is not immediately concerning compared to hypomagnesemia.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Cullen's sign: Cullen's sign is a bluish discoloration around the umbilicus, indicating possible internal bleeding or a ruptured ectopic pregnancy. It is unrelated to hypocalcemia.

B. Chvostek's sign: Chvostek's sign is a spasm or twitching of the facial muscles when the facial nerve is tapped, which is a classic sign of hypocalcemia due to low calcium levels affecting neuromuscular function.

C. Brudzinski's sign: Brudzinski's sign involves involuntary flexion of the knees and hips when the neck is flexed, indicative of meningitis. It is unrelated to hypocalcemia.

D. Kernig's sign: Kernig's sign involves resistance to leg extension when the hip is flexed and is indicative of meningitis. It is not associated with hypocalcemia.

A. Potassium chloride B. Acetylcysteine C. Sodium polystyrene D. Potassium iodide

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Potassium chloride: Potassium chloride is used to treat hypokalemia, not hyperkalemia.

B. Acetylcysteine: This medication is not used to treat potassium imbalances. It is primarily used to treat acetaminophen overdose or to thin mucus in respiratory conditions.

C. Sodium polystyrene: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, helping to lower serum potassium levels.

D. Potassium iodide: Potassium iodide is used in thyroid conditions (such as thyroid storm) or radiation exposure and is not used to manage potassium levels.

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The nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a group of patients. Which value should be of most concern to the nurse?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who has hypocalcemia. For which of the following signs should the nurse monitor?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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