The nurse is reviewing recent serum lab results for a postoperative male client who underwent a thyroidectomy two days ago. The client is complaining of new onset abdominal cramping and diarrhea and has developed an irregular heart rate. Which emergency medication should the nurse expect to administer to this client?
Furosemide (Lasix)
Diazepam (Valium)
Calcium gluconate
Calcitonin
The Correct Answer is C
A. Furosemide (Lasix): This is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention and does not address the symptoms related to calcium imbalances.
B. Diazepam (Valium): This is an anxiolytic and does not address the symptoms associated with hypocalcemia following a thyroidectomy.
C. Calcium gluconate: This is the appropriate medication for treating hypocalcemia, which can occur after a thyroidectomy due to potential damage to or removal of parathyroid glands, leading to symptoms such as abdominal cramping and irregular heart rate.
D. Calcitonin: While this hormone helps regulate calcium levels, it is more commonly used to treat hypercalcemia, not hypocalcemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Flush the IV site with normal saline, then restart the IV potassium therapy: Flushing and restarting the infusion at the same site is not appropriate if there is redness and swelling, as these are signs of possible phlebitis or infiltration.
B. Discontinue the IV and restart in another site: This is the correct choice. Given the erythema and edema, which indicate possible complications like phlebitis or infiltration, the IV should be discontinued and restarted in a new site to prevent further complications.
C. Flush the IV site with heparin: This is not appropriate for erythema and edema and could exacerbate the problem. Heparin is used to maintain patency of IV lines, not to treat complications.
D. Stop the IV site and check for blood return: While checking for blood return is a good practice to assess for patency, the primary action should be to discontinue the IV and start a new one due to the complications at the site.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypernatremia: This condition involves elevated sodium levels, which is not directly addressed by the insulin and dextrose order.
B. Hyperglycemia: While dextrose can exacerbate hyperglycemia, the order of insulin and dextrose is not for managing hyperglycemia but for another purpose.
C. Hypercalcemia: This condition involves elevated calcium levels and is not related to the use of insulin and dextrose.
D. Hyperkalemia: The administration of regular insulin with dextrose is often used to manage hyperkalemia. Insulin helps shift potassium into cells, while dextrose prevents hypoglycemia resulting from the insulin.
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