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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Blood glucose levels are not directly affected by desmopressin, as it is used to treat diabetes insipidus, which is related to antidiuretic hormone (ADH) deficiency, not glucose metabolism.
B. A serum sodium level of 146 mEq/L is slightly elevated and may indicate dehydration, which is common in diabetes insipidus if not well controlled. Desmopressin should help lower the sodium level by reducing the excessive urine output.
C. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is typically used to assess kidney function and hydration status, but it is not a primary indicator of the effectiveness of desmopressin in treating diabetes insipidus.
D. A urine specific gravity of 1.015 is within the normal range and indicates more concentrated urine, which is a therapeutic effect of desmopressin. The medication helps the kidneys retain water, leading to more concentrated urine, and improving symptoms of diabetes insipidus.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. While documenting the amount of drainage is important, it is not the most urgent action when clear drainage is observed after a transsphenoidal hypophysectomy.
B. Notifying the provider is important but should not be the first step. The nurse should first assess the nature of the drainage, as it could indicate a serious complication, such as cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage.
C. A culture may be necessary if infection is suspected, but the priority action is to assess whether the drainage is CSF.
D. Checking the drainage for glucose is the most appropriate initial action. Clear drainage from the nasal packing could indicate a CSF leak, which is a complication that can occur after transsphenoidal surgery. CSF contains glucose, so testing for glucose in the drainage will help determine if it is CSF. If glucose is detected, the nurse should immediately notify the provider, as CSF leakage requires prompt intervention.
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.