The nurse observes the following EKG. Which lab would the nurse correlate with this finding?

Na + 134
K+ 6.1
K+ 2.1
Mg+ 18
The Correct Answer is C
A. Mild hyponatremia (Sodium < 135 mEq/L) typically does not produce distinctive ECG changes. This value is unlikely to correlate with the presence of U waves.
B. Hyperkalemia (Potassium > 5.0 mEq/L) is associated with peaked T waves, widened QRS complexes, and flattened or absent P waves, not U waves.
C. Hypokalemia (Potassium < 3.5 mEq/L) is the primary cause of U waves. A potassium level of 2.1 mEq/L is significantly low and can result in ECG changes, including U waves, ST segment depression, and prolonged QT intervals. These changes reflect altered ventricular repolarization.
D. Hypermagnesemia (Magnesium > 2.5 mEq/L) can cause ECG changes such as prolonged PR and QRS intervals, bradycardia, and heart block. However, such an extreme magnesium level of 18 mEq/L would cause severe toxicity and is not associated with U waves.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A. LDL of 160 mg/dL is elevated, which is a risk factor for atherosclerosis.
B. Total cholesterol of 280 mg/dL is above the recommended level, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.
C. Serum albumin is within the normal range and does not indicate atherosclerosis risk.
D. HDL cholesterol at 50 mg/dL is considered within a normal protective range and is not indicative of atherosclerosis risk.
E. Triglycerides of 200 mg/dL are also elevated, contributing to the risk for atherosclerosis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Client with serum phosphorus level of 4.5 mg/dL: This is within the normal range for phosphorus (2.5-4.5 mg/dL), and the client does not require immediate assessment.
B. Client with serum magnesium level of 1.1 mEq/L who has tremors and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes: This is the correct answer. A magnesium level of 1.1 mEq/L is below the normal range (1.5-2.5 mEq/L), and symptoms like tremors and hyperactive reflexes indicate hypomagnesemia, which can lead to serious complications such as arrhythmias.
C. Client with serum potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L who is complaining of abdominal cramping: A potassium level of 5.0 mEq/L is within the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), so this client does not need immediate intervention.
D. Client with serum sodium level of 145 mEq/L who has a dry mouth and is asking for a glass of water: A sodium level of 145 mEq/L is at the upper end of normal (135-145 mEq/L), and the symptoms are likely due to dehydration or a normal response.
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