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 B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Inserting a rectal tube at specified intervals is not a standard practice for bowel training regimens. This intervention is typically reserved for specific medical conditions and is not recommended for routine management of chronic fecal incontinence.
Choice B rationale
Assisting the client to a bedside commode 30 minutes after meals leverages the natural gastrocolic reflex, which stimulates bowel movements after eating. This intervention helps establish a regular bowel routine and is a key component of bowel retraining programs.
Choice C rationale
Encouraging the use of incontinence briefs does not address the underlying issue of bowel incontinence and may not help in establishing a regular bowel routine. This intervention is more focused on managing the symptoms rather than treating the condition.
Choice D rationale
Administering a glycerin suppository 15 minutes after meals can stimulate bowel movements, but it is not the first-line intervention for establishing a bowel training regimen. This approach may be used as an adjunct to other bowel retraining techniques.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Positioning the head with the chin tilted slightly downward is an appropriate action when feeding a client with a CVA. This position helps prevent aspiration by closing the airway and directing food away from the trachea.
Choice B rationale
Allowing 30 minutes of rest before feeding is an appropriate action. Resting before feeding can help improve digestion and reduce the risk of aspiration by ensuring the client is alert and responsive during feeding.
Choice C rationale
Placing food on the unaffected side of the mouth is an appropriate action when feeding a client with a CVA. This technique helps the client manage food more effectively and reduces the risk of aspiration.
Choice D rationale
Raising the head of the bed to 60 degrees is not sufficient to prevent aspiration. The head of the bed should be elevated 45 to 90 degrees to ensure proper positioning and reduce the risk of aspiration. Therefore, if the UAP raises the head of the bed to only 60 degrees, it indicates the need for additional teaching.