When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L (7.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?
Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.
Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.
Observe color and amount of urine.
Compare muscle strength bilaterally.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Assessing the strength of deep tendon reflexes is important in evaluating neuromuscular function, but it is not the most critical intervention for a client with hyperkalemia. Hyperkalemia primarily affects cardiac function, so monitoring the heart is crucial.
Choice B rationale
Determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is the most important intervention for a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L. Hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, and monitoring the heart rate and rhythm can help detect early signs of these complications.
Choice C rationale
Observing the color and amount of urine can provide information about kidney function and hydration status, but it is not the most critical intervention for hyperkalemia. The primary concern with hyperkalemia is its effect on the heart.
Choice D rationale
Comparing muscle strength bilaterally can help assess neuromuscular function, but it is not the most critical intervention for hyperkalemia. The focus should be on monitoring cardiac function to prevent life-threatening complications.
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Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Lubricating the thermometer before inserting it into the ear is not a standard practice for using a tympanic thermometer. Tympanic thermometers are designed to be used without lubrication, and using lubrication could interfere with the accuracy of the reading.
Choice B rationale
Holding the thermometer in place for a full three minutes is unnecessary for tympanic thermometers. These thermometers provide quick readings, usually within a few seconds, and holding it for longer does not improve accuracy.
Choice C rationale
Pulling the client’s auricle down and back is the correct technique for infants and young children. For adults, the correct technique is to pull the auricle up and back to straighten the ear canal for an accurate reading.
Choice D rationale
Using positive reinforcement to affirm that the procedure is being performed correctly is the appropriate action. The UAP is using the correct technique by pulling the client’s auricle up and back, which is the proper method for adults.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Ensuring the bevel of the needle is pointing up is crucial for intradermal injections as it allows the medication to be deposited just below the epidermis, forming a small bleb or wheal.
Choice B rationale
The upper arm is not the preferred site for intradermal injections. The inner forearm and upper back are more commonly used as they allow for better visualization of the reaction.
Choice C rationale
Holding the syringe perpendicular to the skin is incorrect for intradermal injections. The correct angle is 5 to 15 degrees to ensure the medication is deposited in the dermis.
Choice D rationale
Massaging the site gently after injection is not recommended for intradermal injections as it can disperse the medication and affect the test results.