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
Wearing gloves to dispose of the needle and syringe is a good practice to prevent needlestick injuries and contamination. However, it does not directly indicate an understanding of standard precautions, which emphasize hand hygiene as a primary measure.
Choice B rationale
Removing the needle before discarding used syringes is not recommended as it increases the risk of needlestick injuries. Standard precautions emphasize the safe disposal of sharps in puncture-resistant containers without manipulating the needle.
Choice C rationale
Donning a face mask before administering medication is not a standard precaution for handling syringes and needles. Standard precautions focus more on hand hygiene and the use of gloves when there is a risk of exposure to blood or body fluids.
Choice D rationale
Washing hands before handling the needle and syringe is a fundamental aspect of standard precautions. Hand hygiene is the most effective way to prevent the transmission of infections and is a clear indication of understanding standard precautions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Knowing when the client voided following catheter removal is crucial because it indicates the return of the client’s ability to urinate after catheter removal. It helps assess urinary function and determines if the client is experiencing any urinary retention issues, which could potentially lead to complications such as urinary tract infections or bladder distention.
Choice B rationale
The time of the last dose of IV antibiotic administration is important for managing the client’s urinary tract infection, but it is not as immediately relevant as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.
Choice C rationale
Intake and output reports for the previous shift are important for assessing fluid balance and renal function, but knowing when the client voided after catheter removal takes precedence as it directly assesses urinary function and the need for further intervention.
Choice D rationale
The color of the urine during catheter removal may provide some insight into the client’s urinary condition, but it is not as critical as knowing when the client voided after catheter removal to assess urinary function.