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 A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Beginning with questions that are less sensitive in nature helps build rapport and makes the client more comfortable. This approach gradually leads to more sensitive topics, reducing anxiety and promoting honest responses.
Choice B rationale
Getting the most difficult questions over with first can increase the client’s anxiety and discomfort, leading to less honest or incomplete answers. It is not an effective strategy for sensitive topics.
Choice C rationale
Sharing personal values to put the client at ease can introduce bias and affect the client’s responses. It is important to remain neutral and nonjudgmental.
Choice D rationale
Asking questions in a vague, non-specific format can lead to misunderstandings and incomplete information. Clear, direct questions are more effective for gathering accurate information.
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring the client’s white blood cell count is essential to assess the presence and severity of infection. An elevated white blood cell count can indicate an ongoing infection, including MRSA.
Choice B rationale
Sending wound drainage for culture and sensitivity is crucial to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection and to determine the most effective antibiotics for treatment.
Choice C rationale
Instituting contact precautions for staff and visitors is necessary to prevent the spread of MRSA. This includes wearing gloves and gowns when entering the client’s room and ensuring proper hand hygiene.
Choice D rationale
Explaining the purpose of a low bacteria diet is not relevant to the management of MRSA infections. MRSA management focuses on infection control measures and appropriate antibiotic therapy.
Choice E rationale
Using standard precautions and wearing a mask is not specific to MRSA management. While standard precautions are always important, contact precautions are more relevant for preventing the spread of MRSA.