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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Rationale:
A. A serum potassium of 6.5 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which can occur in acidosis as hydrogen ions shift into cells and potassium shifts out. Flaccid paralysis is a serious neuromuscular manifestation of severe hyperkalemia and supports a diagnosis of acidosis.
B. A potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L is normal, and hyperactive DTRs are more often associated with alkalosis, not acidosis.
C. A sodium level of 144 mEq/L is normal, and while tachycardia may occur in many conditions, it is nonspecific and does not indicate acidosis.
D. A sodium level of 130 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, and peripheral edema is more related to fluid imbalance or heart failure, not acidosis.

A. Calcium 8.2 mg/dL B. Phosphorous 5.1 mEq/L C. Potassium 2.4 mEq/L D. Sodium 145 mEq/L

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.

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When caring for a client with an acid-base imbalance, which serum electrolytes are essential for a nurse to monitor? (Select 2 that apply)

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which laboratory data and clinical manifestations cause you to suspect your client may be experiencing acidosis?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse in an urgent care clinic is caring for a client who reports muscle weakness after taking several over-the-counter diet pills. Which of the following laboratory results should be the nurse's priority?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Interpret the following ABG: pH 7.44, PaCo2 48mmHg, HCO3 30 Meq/L

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