Which serum electrolyte value alerts the nurse to the possibility of hyperaldosteronism?

Serum sodium, 150 mmol/L; serum potassium, 2.5 mmol/L

Serum sodium, 140 mmol/L; serum potassium, 5.0 mmol/L

Serum sodium, 130 mmol/L; serum potassium, 7.5 mmol/L

Serum sodium, 130 mmol/L; serum potassium, 2.5 mmol/L

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A. Hyperaldosteronism causes sodium retention and potassium excretion, leading to elevated serum sodium levels and low potassium levels. A serum potassium level of 2.5 mmol/L is indicative of hypokalemia, which is a classic finding in hyperaldosteronism.
B. This serum electrolyte pattern (normal sodium and potassium) is not suggestive of hyperaldosteronism.
C. In hyperaldosteronism, the serum sodium is typically elevated, but the potassium level is very low, not elevated as seen in this option.
D. While low potassium is indicative of hyperaldosteronism, the sodium level is abnormally low in this case, which is not typical for this condition. Hyperaldosteronism typically presents with elevated sodium.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Encouraging the patient to increase oral fluid intake may help with secretion thinning over time, but in the immediate situation of thick respiratory secretions, it will not provide immediate relief.
B. Applying humidification to the oxygen would be helpful over time to thin secretions, but it is not the immediate action needed to address the difficulty in clearing thick secretions.
C. Suctioning the tracheostomy is the priority action in this situation. When a patient with a tracheostomy has difficulty clearing thick secretions, suctioning is the most effective way to relieve the obstruction and improve airflow, thereby addressing the immediate respiratory distress.
D. Offering reassurance is important, but it does not address the patient’s immediate need to clear the airway. Managing the respiratory distress should take priority.

A. Serum sodium, 150 mmol/L; serum potassium, 2.5 mmol/L B. Serum sodium, 140 mmol/L; serum potassium, 5.0 mmol/L C. Serum sodium, 130 mmol/L; serum potassium, 7.5 mmol/L D. Serum sodium, 130 mmol/L; serum potassium, 2.5 mmol/L

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Which serum electrolyte value alerts the nurse to the possibility of hyperaldosteronism?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Which action would the nurse take first for a patient with a tracheostomy who appears anxious and is having difficulty in coughing up thick respiratory secretion?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation