When assessing an elderly patient, the nurse notes a barrel-shaped chest. This finding is typically associated with which respiratory condition?

A. Improved kidney function:Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is a cation-exchange resin that works within the gastrointestinal tract and does not have a direct therapeutic effect on the nephrons. While lowering potassium can prevent cardiac complications of renal failure, the drug itself does not reverse underlying kidney pathology. It is a symptomatic treatment for electrolyte imbalance.

B. Decreased serum potassium levels:This medication works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions across the intestinal mucosa, which are then excreted in the feces. The primary therapeutic goal is the significant reduction of potentially cardiotoxic extracellular potassium levels. It is a standard intervention for managing non-emergent hyperkalemia.

C. Increased bowel motility:While the drug can sometimes be administered with a laxative to prevent impaction, its primary pharmacological mechanism is ion exchange, not peristaltic stimulation. In some cases, it can actually cause constipation if not managed correctly. Increased motility is a side effect or secondary effect rather than the primary anticipated outcome.

D. Elevated serum sodium levels:Because the resin releases sodium in exchange for potassium, a modest increase in serum sodium can occur as a side effect. However, this is a secondary consequence that the nurse monitors for safety rather than a goal they anticipate as a therapeutic success. The focus remains on the reduction of potassium.

A. Administer a fast-acting carbohydrate as prescribed:Hypoglycemia is a primary physiological threat where the brain is deprived of its essential fuel source, glucose. Rapid administration of glucose is the first-line intervention to prevent seizures, coma, or permanent neurological damage. This action addresses the most basic biological need for metabolic substrate.

B. Check the patient's emotional response to symptoms:Emotional assessment is a higher-level need that cannot be effectively conducted while the patient is in a state of metabolic crisis. Physiological distress often manifests as irritability or anxiety, which resolves once glucose levels are normalized. The physical deficit must be corrected before evaluating the psyche.

C. Evaluate the patient's knowledge of diabetes management:Education is a component of self-actualization and long-term health maintenance. It is inappropriate to provide teaching while a patient is experiencing acute cognitive impairment from low blood sugar. Education occurs only after the patient is physiologically stable and cognitively intact.

D. Collaborate with the dietician on a long-term plan:Long-term planning is a secondary intervention focused on preventing future occurrences. It does not address the immediate, life-threatening drop in serum glucose that the patient is currently experiencing. Acute stabilization is the priority before moving to interdisciplinary long-term management strategies.