The nurse is reviewing the laboratory values for the client diagnosed with heart failure and notes the sodium level is 128 mEq/L (normal 135-145mEq/L). How should the nurse interpret this finding?
There is an increased risk for cardiac dysrhythmias
There is dilutional hyponatremia and fluid retention
There is an imbalance in the sodium-potassium pump
The client is in acute renal failure related to heart failure
The Correct Answer is B
A. Increased risk for cardiac dysrhythmias: While hyponatremia can sometimes contribute to cardiac dysrhythmias, it's not the primary concern in this case. The main issue is fluid overload.
B. Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels, is often associated with heart failure. In this condition, the heart's reduced pumping ability leads to fluid retention, which dilutes the sodium concentration in the blood.
C. Imbalance in the sodium-potassium pump: While this can contribute to electrolyte imbalances, it's not the direct cause of hyponatremia in heart failure.
D. Acute renal failure: While heart failure can lead to acute kidney injury, hyponatremia is primarily a result of fluid overload rather than kidney dysfunction.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. The 12-lead EKG might be unnecessary right now, especially since the client has no other alarming symptoms. Bumetanide is also not indicated for nausea or tachycardia in this scenario.
B. There is no clear indication that the nausea is related to acid reflux or GI distress that would justify pantoprazole.
C. The tachycardia could be physiological, and treating it with a beta-blocker is unnecessary unless there is a more concerning underlying cause (like heart failure or ischemia). The priority here is not pharmacological intervention but monitoring the client's overall condition.
D. This action allows for appropriate monitoring of the client's condition. Sinus tachycardia may resolve on its own without intervention, and the client doesn't exhibit severe symptoms requiring immediate pharmacologic treatment.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. These are not typical symptoms of atrial flutter. They may be seen in other conditions like hypertensive crisis or systemic problems, but not as a primary manifestation of atrial flutter.
B. These are classic signs of diabetes or hyperglycemia, not atrial flutter.
C. These are common symptoms of atrial flutter, which results in an irregular heart rhythm and may cause increased heart rate, leading to palpitations and shortness of breath.
D. A systolic murmur is more associated with valve problems, and anxiety could be a result of various issues but is not a typical finding directly caused by atrial flutter.
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