Which assessment finding will the nurse expect for a patient with the following laboratory values: sodium 145 mEq/L, potassium 45 mq, calcium 45 mg/dL?
Light-headedness when standing up
Weak quadriceps muscles
Decreased deep tendon reflexes
Tingling of extremities
The Correct Answer is D
A. Light-headedness when standing up:
Elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can lead to muscle weakness or paralysis, cardiac dysrhythmias, and even cardiac arrest. Light-headedness when standing up is more commonly associated with orthostatic hypotension or volume depletion rather than electrolyte imbalances like hyperkalemia.
B. Weak quadriceps muscles:
Weakness in the quadriceps muscles is not typically associated with the electrolyte imbalances presented in the scenario. Hyperkalemia can cause muscle weakness, but it is not specific to the quadriceps.
C. Decreased deep tendon reflexes:
Decreased deep tendon reflexes are not typically associated with the electrolyte imbalances presented in the scenario. Hyperkalemia can lead to hyperreflexia or absent reflexes, but it is not specific to decreased deep tendon reflexes.
D. Tingling of extremities:
This is the correct answer. Hypocalcemia, indicated by the low calcium level in the scenario, can manifest with symptoms such as tingling or numbness of the extremities, muscle cramps, and tetany. Calcium plays a crucial role in nerve transmission, and low levels can lead to sensory disturbances like tingling in the extremities.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Respiratory acidosis occurs when there is inadequate removal of carbon dioxide (CO2) by the lungs, leading to an accumulation of CO2 and a decrease in pH.
Analysis:
pH 7.22: Indicates acidemia (pH below 7.35), suggesting acidosis.
PaCO2 68 mm Hg: Elevated PaCO2 indicates hypoventilation, which is characteristic of respiratory acidosis.
Base excess -2: Base excess is within normal limits and does not contribute significantly to the acid-base imbalance in this scenario.
PaO2 78 mm Hg: PaO2 is slightly low but not significantly contributing to the acid-base imbalance.
Saturation 80%: Oxygen saturation is low, indicating hypoxemia, which is commonly associated with respiratory acidosis due to hypoventilation.
Bicarbonate 26 mEq/L: Bicarbonate is within normal limits, suggesting compensation for the respiratory acidosis, which is a chronic condition.
Overall, the ABG values indicate respiratory acidosis due to inadequate ventilation, leading to CO2 retention and subsequent acidemia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Pulling the client up from under the arms: This action can increase shearing force on the client's skin, especially if done abruptly or without proper assistance. Pulling the client up by the arms can create friction and shear between the skin and underlying tissues, potentially worsening the pressure injury.
B) Improving the client's hydration: While hydration is essential for overall skin health, it is not directly related to reducing shearing force on a pressure injury. Hydration can help maintain skin integrity and promote healing but does not directly address the mechanical forces contributing to pressure injuries.
C) Lubricating the area with skin cream: While skin cream can help moisturize and protect the skin, it may not necessarily reduce shearing force on a pressure injury. While lubrication can reduce friction between surfaces, it may not be sufficient to prevent shearing forces that occur during movement or repositioning.
D) Preventing the client from sliding in bed: This is the most appropriate action to decrease shearing force on a stage II pressure injury. Sliding in bed can exacerbate shearing forces on the skin, leading to further damage or delayed healing of the pressure injury. Using devices such as pillows, positioning aids, or specialized mattresses can help prevent the client from sliding and minimize shearing forces on the affected area, promoting healing and preventing further injury.
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