When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Reference Range:
Potassium (K+) 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)

Observe color and amount of urine.

Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.

Compare muscle strength bilaterally.

Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Observing the color and amount of urine is important for assessing kidney function and hydration status but is not the most critical intervention for hypokalemia, which can have immediate life-threatening cardiac effects.

Choice B reason: Determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is the most important intervention. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias, and the apical pulse is the most accurate non-invasive way to assess cardiac rhythm and rate.

Choice C reason: Comparing muscle strength bilaterally is important for assessing the impact of hypokalemia on muscle function, but it is not as immediately life-threatening as cardiac effects.

Choice D reason: Assessing the strength of deep tendon reflexes can help evaluate neuromuscular involvement in hypokalemia but is less critical than monitoring for cardiac arrhythmias.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Slip-on rubber shower shoes are not recommended as they do not provide the necessary support or stability for a client with weakness on one side.

Choice B reason: Tennis shoes with Velcro are ideal as they offer good support and are easy to fasten, which is beneficial for a client with one-sided weakness and potentially limited dexterity.

Choice C reason: Leather-soled loafers can be slippery and do not offer the snug fit and support needed for safe ambulation post-stroke.

Choice D reason: Rubber-soled slippers may provide some grip but typically do not offer the structured support that is necessary for a client with post-stroke weakness.

A. Unpleasant odor of the breath B. White patches on the mucosa. C. Gumline that has visibly receded. D. Discoloration of several teeth.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: While unpleasant odor can indicate poor oral hygiene or other health issues, it is not as urgent as some other findings.

Choice B reason: White patches on the mucosa can indicate an infection such as oral thrush, which requires medical treatment, making it the most important finding to act upon.

Choice C reason: A receding gumline is a concern for dental health but does not typically require immediate action.

Choice D reason: Discoloration of teeth can indicate various issues, including dietary habits or decay, but is not as immediately concerning as white patches on the mucosa. Bolded text indicates the correct answers and important information.

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When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement? Reference Range: Potassium (K+) 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse is teaching a spouse how to care for a client who recently had a stroke and has residual weakness on the right side. Which style of shoes should the nurse recommend the client wear when ambulating with the spouse's assistance?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Reference Range:
Potassium (K+) 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)