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 C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Advising the UAP to wear a standard face mask to obtain vital signs and then get fitted for a filter mask before providing personal care is not appropriate. The UAP should be properly equipped with the correct protective gear before any contact with the client.
Choice B rationale
Instructing the UAP that a standard face mask is sufficient to provide care for the assigned client is incorrect. Bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, and a standard face mask is sufficient for this type of precaution, not a particulate filter mask.
Choice C rationale
Sending the UAP to be fitted for a particulate filter mask immediately so the UAP can provide care to this client is unnecessary because bacterial meningitis requires droplet precautions, which only necessitate a standard surgical mask, not a particulate filter mask like an N953.
Choice D rationale
Before changing assignments, determining which staff members have fitted particulate filter masks is prudent but not necessary for caring for a client with bacterial meningitis under droplet precautions. The focus should be on ensuring the UAP understands that a standard mask is sufficient.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Providing a back rub at bedtime can help promote relaxation and improve sleep quality. However, it does not directly address the issue of wandering, which poses a safety risk for the client. The primary concern should be ensuring the client’s safety by preventing wandering.
Choice B rationale
Applying wrist restraints to prevent wandering is not an appropriate first intervention. Restraints should be used as a last resort when other measures have failed, and they can cause physical and psychological harm to the client. The focus should be on non-restrictive interventions to ensure safety.
Choice C rationale
Administering a PRN sedative prescription may help the client sleep, but it should not be the first intervention. Sedatives can have side effects and may not address the underlying cause of the client’s wandering. Non-pharmacological interventions should be tried first.
Choice D rationale
Leaving the door to the client’s room open slightly allows the client to see and hear staff members as they pass by, which can help reduce feelings of isolation and anxiety. This intervention addresses both the client’s sleep issues and wandering behavior by providing a sense of security and supervision.