When caring for a client with an acid-base imbalance, which serum electrolytes are essential for a nurse to monitor? (Select 2 that apply)
Magnesium
Sodium
Potassium
Calcium
Phosphate
Correct Answer : A,C
Rationale:
A. Magnesium plays a role in acid-base balance and influences potassium levels.
B. Sodium is important but less directly related to acid-base balance than potassium and magnesium.
C. Potassium is critical to monitor because acid-base imbalances often cause shifts in potassium levels, affecting cardiac function.
D. Calcium levels can be affected but are less immediately critical than potassium and magnesium.
E. Phosphate is involved in metabolism but is not a primary electrolyte monitored for acid-base balance.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Calcium of 8.2 mg/dL is slightly low but less immediately life-threatening.
B. Phosphorus 5.1 mEq/L is mildly elevated but usually less critical.
C. Potassium 2.4 mEq/L is significantly low (normal 3.5–5.0 mEq/L) and can cause muscle weakness, cardiac dysrhythmias, and is a medical emergency.
D. Sodium 145 mEq/L is within normal limits.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Chloride levels often decrease along with sodium, as they are closely related electrolytes. Hyponatremia is commonly accompanied by hypochloremia.
B. Calcium levels are regulated independently of sodium and are not typically affected by hyponatremia.
C. Potassium may be normal, low, or even high depending on the underlying cause; it is not consistently low with hyponatremia.
D. Magnesium levels do not typically mirror sodium levels and are regulated separately.
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