Which assessment finding is most indicative of hypernatremia?
Ascending muscle weakness
Muscle tetany and hyperreflexia
Poor turgor and dry mucous membranes
Bradycardia and hypotension
The Correct Answer is C
A. Ascending muscle weakness is more characteristic of hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hypernatremia.
B. Muscle tetany and hyperreflexia are typically seen in hypocalcemia (low calcium levels) or hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels), not hypernatremia.
C. Hypernatremia (high sodium levels) commonly causes dehydration, which results in poor skin turgor and dry mucous membranes. This is a key clinical sign of hypernatremia.
D. Bradycardia and hypotension are more commonly associated with hypovolemia (low blood volume) or hypotension, but they are not specific to hypernatremia.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Encouraging the client to change positions slowly, such as moving from lying to sitting and then to standing, helps to minimize the risk of orthostatic hypotension. This gradual change allows the body to adjust to positional changes without causing a sudden drop in blood pressure.
B. Encouraging vigorous exercise is not recommended for a client with hypovolemia as it could exacerbate the condition, potentially causing dizziness, fainting, or further lowering blood pressure.
C. Encouraging the client to stand for extended periods is not appropriate for a client at risk for orthostatic hypotension, as standing for prolonged periods can cause blood to pool in the lower extremities, increasing the risk of fainting or dizziness.
D. Encouraging the client to limit fluid intake is inappropriate for a client with hypovolemia. Adequate fluid intake is crucial to help restore blood volume and prevent hypotension.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. A CT scan of the head is not indicated based on the laboratory findings provided. The priority intervention is related to the elevated potassium level.
B. Chvostek’s sign is associated with hypocalcemia (low calcium levels), not hyperkalemia (high potassium levels).
C. A chest X-ray is not the priority intervention for elevated potassium. The primary concern is the potential for cardiac arrhythmias related to the high potassium level.
D. Hyperkalemia (potassium 6.6 mEq/L) can lead to cardiac arrhythmias. The nurse should obtain a 12-lead ECG to assess for any changes in the heart's electrical activity, which could indicate serious complications like arrhythmias or cardiac arrest.
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