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.

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Placing a client in restraints without having a healthcare provider's order is not a tort, but a violation of the client's rights. The nurse should obtain an order for restraints as soon as possible and follow the facility's policy and procedure.

Choice B reason: Informing a client that the medication being administered is a vitamin is a tort, specifically a fraud. The nurse is deceiving the client and violating the principle of informed consent. The nurse should explain the purpose, benefits, and risks of the medication to the client and obtain the client's consent.

Choice C reason: Enlisting security personnel to assist with restraining the client is not a tort, but a prudent action. The nurse is ensuring the safety of the client and others by seeking help from trained staff. The nurse should document the incident and the rationale for the intervention.

Choice D reason: Administering the medication to a client behind a closed curtain is not a tort, but a respectful action. The nurse is maintaining the client's privacy and dignity by providing a quiet and secluded environment. The nurse should monitor the client's response and report any adverse effects.

A. Assess the position of the mask on the client's face. B. Release and reinsert the flowmeter in the wall outlet. C. Attach the flowmeter to a humidification canister. D. Adjust the flow rate to the prescribed liters per minute.

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

Choice A reason: Assessing the position of the mask on the client's face is not the priority action. The mask may be well-fitted, but the oxygen delivery may be compromised by the faulty connection of the flowmeter.

Choice B reason: Releasing and reinserting the flowmeter in the wall outlet is the best action as it may correct the problem of the loose or misaligned connection. The nurse should ensure that the flowmeter is securely attached and that the oxygen is flowing properly.

Choice C reason: Attaching the flowmeter to a humidification canister is not necessary for oxygen delivery per mask. Humidification is usually added for high-flow oxygen devices such as nasal cannula or face tent.

Choice D reason: Adjusting the flow rate to the prescribed liters per minute is not the appropriate action. The flow rate may be correct, but the oxygen delivery may be impaired by the hissing sound indicating a leak or obstruction.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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