A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values for a client who has heart failure and is taking bumetanide. For which of the following results should the nurse notify the provider?
Calcium 10 mg/dL
Sodium 136 mEq/L
Potassium 2.3 mEq/L
Magnesium 1.4 mEq/L
The Correct Answer is C
A. Calcium 10 mg/dL: This calcium level is within the normal range (8.6-10.2 mg/dL) and does not require intervention.
B. Sodium 136 mEq/L: This sodium level is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L).
C. Potassium 2.3 mEq/L: This potassium level is critically low; bumetanide is a loop diuretic that can cause hypokalemia, which can lead to dangerous cardiac dysrhythmias.
D. Magnesium 1.4 mEq/L: While slightly low, this magnesium level is only mildly decreased and not as immediately concerning as the potassium level.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "Cardiac rehabilitation cannot undo the damage to your heart, but it can help you get back to your previous level of activity safely." This response is therapeutic and educative, helping the client understand that while damage cannot be reversed, rehabilitation supports safe recovery and improved quality of life.
B. "Your doctor is the expert here, and I'm sure he would only recommend what is best for you." This response does not address the client’s concerns and lacks supportive or educational value.
C. "You are probably right and I agree with you, but I still think you should go." This dismissive response fails to provide support, education, or empathy.
D. "It's not unusual to feel that way at first, but once you learn the routine, you'll be fine." Although this statement offers some support, it lacks the educational element needed to address the client’s concerns about the purpose of rehabilitation.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fatigue. Fatigue can be a common symptom of various health conditions, including heart disease, and is not specific to pacemaker malfunction.
B. Rapid pulse. A rapid pulse or palpitations may signal a malfunction where the pacemaker is pacing too quickly or erratically.
C. Increased urine output. Increased urine output is not related to pacemaker function and does not indicate a malfunction.
D. Sneezing. Sneezing is unrelated to pacemaker malfunction and does not warrant provider notification.