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","B","D"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Determine client’s subjective measure of pain using a numerical pain scale. Assessing the client’s pain using a numerical pain scale allows the nurse to understand the client’s perception of their pain and to monitor changes over time. This is a crucial step in managing chronic pain as it provides a baseline for evaluating the effectiveness of interventions.
Choice B rationale
Implement a 24-hour schedule of routine administration of prescribed analgesic. Chronic pain management often requires a consistent and routine administration of analgesics to maintain a stable level of pain control. This approach helps to prevent the peaks and troughs of pain that can occur with as-needed dosing.
Choice C rationale
Assist the client to ambulate as much as possible during waking hours. While ambulation can be beneficial for some clients, it may not be appropriate for all clients with chronic pain, especially if the pain is severe or if ambulation exacerbates the pain. Therefore, this intervention should be individualized based on the client’s condition.
Choice D rationale
Provide comfort measures such as topical warm application and tactile massage. Non- pharmacological interventions such as warm applications and massage can help to alleviate pain and improve comfort. These measures can be used in conjunction with pharmacological treatments to provide a more comprehensive approach to pain management.
Choice E rationale
Encourage increased fluid intake and measure urinary output every 8 hours. While maintaining adequate hydration is important, this intervention is not directly related to the management of chronic pain. It may be more relevant for clients with other conditions such as renal issues.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Whether the popsicles contain pulp or fruit is not relevant to the clear liquid diet, which focuses on the clarity and digestibility of the liquids.
Choice B rationale
The color and flavor of gelatin used are important because certain colors, especially red or purple, can interfere with medical tests and are often avoided in clear liquid diets.
Choice C rationale
If the popsicles are completely frozen is not relevant to the dietary restrictions. The focus should be on the ingredients and their suitability for a clear liquid diet.
Choice D rationale
The number of popsicles available does not impact their suitability for the child’s diet. The nurse should focus on the content and appropriateness of the popsicles.