The RN receives a call from the lab that a client's potassium chloride (KCl) level is 6.6 (normal range is 3.5 to 5 mEq/L). What should the nurse do first?
Stop the KCl infusion
Administer oral KCl
Encourage fluids for dilution
Call the pharmacy
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because stopping the KCl infusion is the first and most urgent action that the nurse should take. A high level of potassium in the blood, or hyperkalemia, can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. The nurse should stop the source of excess potassium, which is the KCl infusion, and monitor the client's vital signs, electrocardiogram, and symptoms.
Choice B reason: This is not the correct answer because administering oral KCl is not the first or appropriate action that the nurse should take. Oral KCl would increase the potassium level in the blood, which is already too high. The nurse should avoid giving any potassium supplements or foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes.
Choice C reason: This is not the correct answer because encouraging fluids for dilution is not the first or effective action that the nurse should take. Fluids alone would not lower the potassium level in the blood, but rather dilute the concentration of other electrolytes, such as sodium and calcium. The nurse should administer fluids only as prescribed by the physician, and in conjunction with other treatments, such as diuretics, insulin, or sodium bicarbonate.
Choice D reason: This is not the correct answer because calling the pharmacy is not the first or priority action that the nurse should take. Calling the pharmacy may be necessary to obtain the medications that can lower the potassium level in the blood, such as diuretics, insulin, or sodium bicarbonate. However, the nurse should first stop the KCl infusion and notify the physician, who will order the appropriate medications and dosages.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because stabilizing the object is the priority nursing action for a penetrating eye injury. Stabilizing the object prevents further damage to the eye structures and reduces the risk of infection and bleeding. The nurse should use a protective shield or cup to cover the eye and secure the object in place, and avoid applying any pressure or movement to the eye.
Choice B reason: This is not the correct answer because applying anesthetic drops is not the priority nursing action for a penetrating eye injury. Anesthetic drops may provide some relief from pain and discomfort, but they do not address the underlying problem of the object in the eye. Anesthetic drops should only be used under the direction of a physician, and after the object has been stabilized.
Choice C reason: This is not the correct answer because removing the object is not the priority nursing action for a penetrating eye injury. Removing the object is a surgical procedure that should only be performed by a qualified physician in a sterile environment. Attempting to remove the object by the nurse may cause more harm to the eye and increase the risk of complications.
Choice D reason: This is not the correct answer because applying eye ointment is not the priority nursing action for a penetrating eye injury. Eye ointment may interfere with the visualization and assessment of the eye, and may also contaminate the wound and cause infection. Eye ointment should only be used under the direction of a physician, and after the object has been stabilized.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Fluid volume deficit is a condition in which the body loses more fluid than it gains, resulting in dehydration, hypotension, and electrolyte imbalances. It is not a complication of IV fluid therapy, but rather a reason for initiating it.
Choice B reason: Fluid volume excess is a condition in which the body retains more fluid than it needs, resulting in edema, hypertension, and heart failure. It is a potential complication of IV fluid therapy, especially in older adults who have reduced renal function and cardiac output. The nurse's assessment findings of crackles, shortness of breath, and jugular vein distention are indicative of fluid overload and pulmonary congestion.
Choice C reason: Speed shock is a systemic reaction that occurs when a substance is administered too rapidly into the bloodstream, causing adverse effects such as chest pain, dyspnea, hypotension, and cardiac arrest. It is not a complication of IV fluid therapy, but rather a risk associated with IV medication administration.
Choice D reason: Pulmonary embolism is a blockage of one or more pulmonary arteries by a blood clot, fat, or air, causing impaired gas exchange, chest pain, dyspnea, and hemoptysis. It is not a complication of IV fluid therapy, but rather a possible outcome of venous thromboembolism, which can be prevented by using anticoagulants and mechanical devices.
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