When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.
Observe color and amount of urine.
Compare muscle strength bilaterally.
Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: This is the most important intervention because a high serum potassium level can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, which can be life-threatening. The nurse should monitor the client's heart rate and rhythm closely and report any changes or abnormalities to the healthcare provider.
Choice B reason: This is not the most important intervention because the color and amount of urine are not directly related to the serum potassium level. The nurse should assess the client's renal function and fluid balance, but these are not the priority assessments.
Choice C reason: This is also not the most important intervention because the muscle strength is not the most sensitive indicator of the serum potassium level. The nurse should evaluate the client's neuromuscular status and watch for signs of weakness or paralysis, but these are not the priority assessments.
Choice D reason: This is another incorrect intervention because the deep tendon reflexes are not the most reliable indicator of the serum potassium level. The nurse should check the client's reflexes and note any hyperreflexia or hyporeflexia, but these are not the priority assessments.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the best explanation as it describes the main goal of the log-rolling technique, which is to prevent twisting or bending of the spine. This is especially important for clients who have spinal injuries, surgeries, or disorders.
Choice B reason: Using two or three people is a part of the log-rolling technique, but it is not the purpose of it. It is a means to achieve the purpose of maintaining spinal alignment. It also ensures that the client is moved smoothly and gently.
Choice C reason: Working together can decrease the risk of back injury to the nurses, but it is not the purpose of the log-rolling technique. It is a benefit for the nurses, but not for the client. The nurse should focus on the client's needs and outcomes.
Choice D reason: Turning instead of pulling reduces the likelihood of skin damage, but it is not the purpose of the log-rolling technique. It is an advantage for the client, but not the main reason for using the technique. The nurse should explain how the technique affects the spine, not the skin.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is the most important intervention because a high serum potassium level can cause cardiac dysrhythmias, which can be life-threatening. The nurse should monitor the client's heart rate and rhythm closely and report any changes or abnormalities to the healthcare provider.
Choice B reason: This is not the most important intervention because the color and amount of urine are not directly related to the serum potassium level. The nurse should assess the client's renal function and fluid balance, but these are not the priority assessments.
Choice C reason: This is also not the most important intervention because the muscle strength is not the most sensitive indicator of the serum potassium level. The nurse should evaluate the client's neuromuscular status and watch for signs of weakness or paralysis, but these are not the priority assessments.
Choice D reason: This is another incorrect intervention because the deep tendon reflexes are not the most reliable indicator of the serum potassium level. The nurse should check the client's reflexes and note any hyperreflexia or hyporeflexia, but these are not the priority assessments.
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