Your patient is ordered a loop diuretic at 1000. Which finding below would require you to hold the dose and notify the physician for further orders?
Sodium level 144
Potassium level 1.5 mEq/L
Blood pressure 102/78
Calcium level 9 mg/L
The Correct Answer is B
Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, are known to cause potassium loss as they increase urine output. A potassium level of 1.5 mEq/L indicates severe hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can be potentially dangerous and lead to various complications, including cardiac arrhythmias.
Hence, it is important to hold the dose of the loop diuretic and notify the physician so that appropriate interventions can be taken to address the low potassium level, such as prescribing potassium supplementation or adjusting the dosage of the loop diuretic.
A sodium level of 144 is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L) and does not require immediate action.
A blood pressure of 102/78, although it may indicate hypotension, does not necessarily require holding the dose of the loop diuretic unless it is accompanied by other significant symptoms or clinical concerns.
A calcium level of 9 mg/dL falls within the normal range (8.5-10.5 mg/dL) and does not necessitate holding the loop diuretic dose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
During triage in a disaster situation, a color tagging system is often used to prioritize and categorize the injured based on the severity of their injuries and the urgency of medical attention required. The colors commonly used in triage are:
● Green tag: Minor injuries that are non-urgent and can typically wait for medical treatment.
● Yellow tag: Injuries that are significant but not immediately life-threatening, requiring medical attention within a few hours.
● Red tag: Critical injuries that are life-threatening but still salvageable with prompt medical intervention.
● Black tag: Injuries that are severe and unsurvivable or incompatible with life. This tag is assigned to individuals who are deceased or have injuries that are beyond the resources available for treatment.
In the given scenario, the absence of breathing, absent radial pulse, prolonged capillary refill, and unresponsiveness indicate a critical condition with no signs of life. Therefore, a black tag would be assigned to this individual.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Patient-centered care involves actively involving the patient in their care and considering their preferences, values, and goals. By discussing dietary preferences with the client, the nurse is demonstrating a patient-centered approach. This documentation indicates that the nurse took the time to engage in a conversation with the client to understand their dietary preferences,
which can help tailor the care plan to meet the client's individual needs and preferences. "Steady gait observed when ambulating" focuses on the nurse's observation and assessment but does not specifically involve the patient's preferences or goals.
"Social worker paged for consultation" indicates collaboration with another healthcare professional but does not necessarily reflect the patient's active involvement or preferences. "Nursing literature reviewed for best practice approaches" highlights evidence-based practice but does not directly involve the patient's preferences or engagement in decision-making.
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