Which rationale supports the nurse's assessment of a patient's magnesium level?
The electrolyte is the most abundant intracellular cation present in the body.
The electrolyte may cause extracellular fluid overload.
Magnesium may affect neuromuscular excitability and contractility.
The patient is at risk for hypotension when the levels of magnesium decrease.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
While magnesium is indeed the most abundant intracellular cation in the body, this fact alone does not explain why the nurse would assess the patient's magnesium level.
Choice B rationale:
Magnesium imbalance can cause issues in the extracellular fluid compartment, but this choice does not explain why the nurse would specifically assess the patient's magnesium level.
Choice D rationale:
While hypotension can be a symptom of severe magnesium deficiency, this choice does not provide a rationale for assessing the patient's magnesium level. In this case, choice C is correct because magnesium plays a crucial role in neuromuscular excitability and contractility. Abnormal magnesium levels can lead to neuromuscular symptoms such as muscle weakness, tremors, and spasms. Additionally, magnesium is involved in cardiac muscle function, and low magnesium levels can lead to arrhythmias and other cardiac issues. Therefore, assessing the patient's magnesium level is essential in understanding their neuromuscular and cardiac health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is c. Respiratory acidosis.
Choice A reason: Metabolic acidosis is incorrect because the HCO3 level is normal. In metabolic acidosis, we would expect to see a decreased HCO3.
Choice B reason: Metabolic alkalosis is incorrect because the HCO3 level is normal. In metabolic alkalosis, we would expect to see an increased HCO3.
Choice C reason: The given ABG results indicate a low pH (acidosis), an elevated PaCO2 (respiratory component), and a normal HCO3 (metabolic component). The low pH and increased PaCO2 suggest respiratory acidosis.
Choice D reason: Respiratory alkalosis is incorrect because the PaCO2 level is elevated, not decreased. In respiratory alkalosis, we would expect to see a decreased PaCO2.
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Palpitations are not directly related to a low hemoglobin level. They can occur due to various cardiac conditions but are not specific to anemia.
Choice B rationale:
Conjunctival pallor is a common physical finding in patients with low hemoglobin levels (anemia) Anemia leads to reduced oxygen-carrying capacity, causing paleness in mucous membranes such as the conjunctiva.
Choice C rationale:
Sternal tenderness is not a typical finding associated with low hemoglobin levels. It is more often associated with conditions affecting the sternum or adjacent structures, such as infections or inflammation.
Choice D rationale:
A heart rate of 104 beats/min can be a compensatory response to anemia. When the body senses reduced oxygen levels due to anemia, the heart rate may increase to pump more blood and oxygen to vital organs, attempting to compensate for the low hemoglobin levels.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.