Free ATI Fluid and Electrolytes practice for Fluid and Electrolytes ATI (ATI RN). Answer 57 nursing exam-style questions with rationales, exam mode, and progres

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Question 1 of 57
ATI Fluid and Electrolytes
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A newly graduated nurse is admitting a patient with a long history of emphysema. The new nurses preceptor is going over the patients past lab reports with the new nurse. The nurse takes note that the patients PaCO2 has been between 56 and 64 mm Hg for several months. The preceptor asks the new nurse why they will be cautious administering oxygen. What is the new nurses best response?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Using oxygen may result in the patient developing carbon dioxide narcosis and hypoxemia.

Explanation:

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A patient with diabetes insipidus is admitted to the intensive care unit after a motor vehicle accident that resulted in head trauma and damage to the pituitary gland. Diabetes insipidus can occur when there is a decreased production of which of the following?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. ADH

Explanation:

The correct answer is A: ADH. Diabetes insipidus is characterized by a deficiency in antidiuretic hormone (ADH), leading to excessive urine output and thirst. In this scenario, the head trauma and damage to the pituitary gland can result in decreased production or release of ADH. Estrogen (Choice B) is not directly related to diabetes insipidus. Aldosterone (Choice C) is a hormone that regulates sodium and potassium levels, not water balance like ADH. Renin (Choice D) is an enzyme involved in the regulation of blood pressure and fluid balance but not directly related to diabetes insipidus.

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You are caring for a patient who is being treated on the oncology unit with a diagnosis of lung cancer with bone metastases. During your assessment, you note the patient complains of a new onset of weakness with abdominal pain. Further assessment suggests that the patient likely has a fluid volume deficit. You should recognize that this patient may be experiencing what electrolyte imbalance?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Hypercalcemia

Explanation:

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You are performing an admission assessment on an older adult patient newly admitted for end-stage liver disease. What principle should guide your assessment of the patient's skin turgor?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Inelastic skin turgor is a normal part of aging.

Explanation:

Inelastic skin is a normal change of aging. However, this does not mean that skin turgor cannot be assessed in older patients. Dehydration, not overhydration, causes inelastic skin with tenting. Overhydration, not dehydration, causes the skin to appear edematous and spongy. Choice A is incorrect because overhydration is not common among healthy older adults. Choice B is incorrect because dehydration leads to inelastic skin, not sponginess. Choice D is incorrect as skin turgor assessment can be done in patients of any age, including those over 70.

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A nurse educator is reviewing peripheral IV insertion with a group of novice nurses. How should these nurses be encouraged to deal with excess hair at the intended site?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Clip the hair in the area.

Explanation:

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A patient is taking spironolactone (Aldactone) to control her hypertension. Her serum potassium level is 6 mEq/L. For this patient, the nurse's priority would be to assess her:

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Electrocardiogram (ECG) results

Explanation:

In a patient with a serum potassium level of 6 mEq/L due to spironolactone use, the nurse's priority is to assess the Electrocardiogram (ECG) results. Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation, which can be detected on an ECG. While changes in neuromuscular function, bowel sounds, and respiratory rate can occur with hyperkalemia, the most critical assessment related to the patient's condition would be monitoring the ECG for signs of cardiac complications.

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The healthcare professional working in the PACU is aware that which of the following procedures may contribute to extracellular losses?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Abdominal surgery

Explanation:

Fluid loss from the extracellular compartment can be caused by abdominal surgery as it involves opening the abdominal cavity, potentially leading to significant fluid losses. Choices A, B, and D do not typically result in substantial extracellular losses compared to abdominal surgery.

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Which of the following are sources of water intake?

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Correct Answer: D. Drinking fluids, consuming water from the food we eat, and water from metabolic processes.

Explanation:

The correct answer is D. The sources of water intake include drinking fluids, consuming water from the food we eat, and water from metabolic processes. Water intake is not solely from the liquids we drink but also from the water content present in the food we consume and the water produced during metabolic processes such as cellular respiration. Therefore, option D is the correct answer as it covers all the sources of water intake. Options A, B, and C alone do not encompass all the sources of water intake, making them incorrect choices.

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What is the most abundant positive ion in blood plasma?

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Correct Answer: C. Sodium.

Explanation:

The correct answer is C: Sodium. Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in the extracellular fluid, including blood plasma. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and is essential for various physiological processes. Choice A, Potassium, is also an important ion in the body but is predominantly found intracellularly. Choice B, Calcium, is an essential mineral in the body but is not the most abundant positive ion in blood plasma. Choice D is incorrect as sodium is the primary positive ion in blood plasma, with a much higher concentration compared to potassium.

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A nurse evaluates a clients arterial blood gas values (ABGs): pH 7.30, PaO2 86 mm Hg, PaCO2 55 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mEq/L. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. Assess the airway.

Explanation:

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A client at risk for mild hypernatremia is being taught by a nurse. Which statement should the nurse include in this client's teaching?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Read food labels to determine sodium content

Explanation:

The correct answer is to 'Read food labels to determine sodium content.' This is important for a client at risk for mild hypernatremia because monitoring sodium intake is crucial in managing this condition. Choice A is not directly related to managing hypernatremia. Choice B focuses on pulse monitoring, which is not specific to managing sodium levels. Choice D addresses cooking methods, which can be beneficial but is not as directly related to sodium intake monitoring as reading food labels.

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Which of the following statements is correct?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. People with less body fat have more body water.

Explanation:

The correct statement is that people with less body fat have more body water. This is because fat tissue contains less water compared to lean tissue, so individuals with less body fat generally have a higher percentage of body water. Choice B is incorrect as infants actually have more water per pound than adults due to their higher body water content. Choice C is incorrect as males typically have more body water per pound than females. Choice D is incorrect as infants have a higher water content per pound compared to adults.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has just had a central venous access line inserted. Which action should the nurse take next?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Ensure an x-ray is completed to confirm placement.

Explanation:

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A client at risk for developing hyperkalemia states, 'I love fruit and usually eat it every day, but now I can't because of my high potassium level.' How should the nurse respond?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Berries, cherries, apples, and peaches are low in potassium.

Explanation:

The correct answer is C. Berries, cherries, apples, and peaches are indeed low in potassium, making them suitable choices for someone at risk for hyperkalemia. Choice A is incorrect because potatoes and avocados are high in potassium and should be avoided in this situation. Choice B is incorrect because cooking fruit does not significantly lower its potassium content. Choice D is incorrect as it provides incorrect information, as not all fruits are very high in potassium.

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Which positive ion is most prevalent in intracellular fluid?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Potassium

Explanation:

The correct answer is Potassium (K+). Potassium is the predominant cation found within cells, making it the most prevalent positive ion in intracellular fluid. Calcium, sodium, and magnesium are also essential ions in the body, but they are not as abundant in intracellular fluid. Calcium is vital for bone health and muscle function, sodium helps in maintaining fluid balance and nerve function, and magnesium is involved in numerous biochemical reactions.

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What is the fluid inside the cell called?

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Correct Answer: B. Intracellular fluid

Explanation:

The correct answer is 'Intracellular fluid.' Intracellular fluid refers to the fluid contained within the cells, constituting a significant portion of the body's total water content. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Plasma is the liquid component of blood outside the cells, interstitial fluid is the fluid surrounding cells in tissues, and the combination of plasma and intracellular fluid is not the specific term for the fluid inside the cell.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has the following arterial blood values: pH 7.12, PaO2 56 mm Hg, PaCO2 65 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mEq/L. Which clinical situation should the nurse correlate with these values?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. . Diabetic ketoacidosis in a person with emphysema

Explanation:

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A nurse in the neurologic ICU has orders to infuse a hypertonic solution into a patient with increased intracranial pressure. This solution will increase the number of dissolved particles in the patients blood, creating pressure for fluids in the tissues to shift into the capillaries and increase the blood volume. This process is best described as which of the following?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Osmosis and osmolality

Explanation:

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. A medical nurse educator is reviewing a patients recent episode of metabolic acidosis with members of the nursing staff. What should the educator describe about the role of the kidneys in metabolic acidosis?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. The kidneys excrete hydrogen ions and conserve bicarbonate ions to help restore balance

Explanation:

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You are the nurse caring for a patient who is to receive IV daunorubicin, a chemotherapeutic agent. You start the infusion and check the insertion site as per protocol. During your most recent check, you note that the IV has infiltrated so you stop the infusion. What is your main concern with this infiltration?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. Extravasation of the medication

Explanation:

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What would be the best initial nursing action prior to inserting an IV?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Verify the order for IV therapy.

Explanation:

The best initial nursing action prior to inserting an IV is to verify the order for IV therapy. This step ensures that the IV insertion is appropriate and necessary based on the physician's orders. Instructing the patient to wash their hands (Choice A) is important for infection control but not the immediate priority before IV insertion. While preparing the IV insertion site with povidone iodine (Choice B) and identifying a suitable vein (Choice D) are crucial steps in the process, confirming the order for IV therapy (Choice C) takes precedence to ensure the correct intervention is being performed.

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A nurse is assessing clients for fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Which client should the nurse assess first for potential hyponatremia?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. A 34-year-old on NPO status who is receiving intravenous D5W

Explanation:

The correct answer is the 34-year-old on NPO status receiving intravenous D5W because D5W is a hypotonic solution that can dilute the blood's sodium levels, leading to hyponatremia. Patients on NPO status rely solely on intravenous fluids for hydration, making them more susceptible to electrolyte imbalances. Choices B, C, and D are less likely to cause hyponatremia. Choice B, the 50-year-old with an infection on a sulfonamide antibiotic, is at risk for allergic reactions or renal issues. Choice C, the 67-year-old taking ibuprofen, is at risk for gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney problems. Choice D, the 73-year-old on digoxin with tachycardia, is more likely to experience digoxin toxicity, affecting the heart's rhythm.

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A nurse is assessing clients on a medical-surgical unit. Which clients are at increased risk for hypophosphatemia? (Select all that do not apply.)

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. A 76-year-old who is prescribed antacids

Explanation:

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A nurse is caring for an older adult client who is admitted with moderate dehydration. Which intervention should the nurse implement to prevent injury while in the hospital?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Dangle the client on the bedside before ambulating.

Explanation:

The correct answer is to 'dangle the client on the bedside before ambulating.' This intervention helps prevent orthostatic hypotension, a drop in blood pressure when changing positions, which is crucial in preventing falls and related injuries in older adult clients. Asking family members to speak quietly (Choice A) may help keep the client calm but does not directly address the risk of injury. Assessing urine parameters (Choice B) is important for monitoring hydration status but does not specifically prevent injury. Encouraging increased fluid intake (Choice C) is essential for managing dehydration but does not directly address the risk of injury during ambulation.

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When does dehydration begin to occur?

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Correct Answer: C. the salivary secretions decrease.

Explanation:

Dehydration leads to a decrease in the body's fluid levels, causing the salivary glands to produce less saliva, resulting in a dry mouth. Therefore, when dehydration begins to occur, salivary secretions decrease. Choice A is incorrect because the body does not reduce fluid output to zero during dehydration; it tries to conserve fluids. Choice B is incorrect as dehydration does not directly increase the release of ANH (Atrial Natriuretic Hormone). Choice D is incorrect because salivary secretions do not increase but decrease during dehydration.

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A client with a serum potassium of 7.5 mEq/L and cardiovascular changes needs immediate intervention. Which prescription should the nurse implement first?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Prepare to administer dextrose 20% and 10 units of regular insulin IV push.

Explanation:

In a client with a serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L and cardiovascular changes, the priority intervention is to lower the potassium level quickly to prevent life-threatening complications like arrhythmias. The correct answer is to prepare to administer dextrose 20% and 10 units of regular insulin IV push. This combination helps shift potassium from the extracellular to the intracellular space, reducing serum potassium levels rapidly. Administering sodium polystyrene sulfate (Kayexalate) by mouth may take several hours to work, making it a less effective immediate intervention. Providing a heart-healthy, low-potassium diet is important for long-term management but is not the most urgent action in this situation. While hemodialysis is a definitive treatment for hyperkalemia, it is not the first-line intervention for acute management of high potassium levels with cardiovascular manifestations.

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A nurse assesses a client who was started on intraperitoneal therapy 5 days ago. The client reports abdominal pain and feeling warm. For which complication of this therapy should the nurse assess this client?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Infection

Explanation:

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Which hormone reduces the amount of water in the body?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. aldosterone

Explanation:

The correct answer is 'aldosterone.' Aldosterone is the hormone that reduces the amount of water in the body by increasing the reabsorption of sodium and water from the kidney tubules. ANH (atrial natriuretic hormone) actually works to increase the excretion of sodium and water by the kidneys, leading to a reduction in blood volume and pressure. ADH (antidiuretic hormone) works to increase water reabsorption by the kidneys, thereby increasing blood volume. Therefore, choices A (ADH) and D (ADH and aldosterone) are incorrect in the context of reducing the amount of water in the body.

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. You are caring for a patient who has a diagnosis of syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). Your patients plan of care includes assessment of specific gravity every 4 hours. The results of this test will allow the nurse to as

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Fluid volume status

Explanation:

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A patient who is in renal failure partially loses the ability to regulate changes in pH because the kidneys:

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Regenerate and reabsorb bicarbonate to maintain a stable pH

Explanation:

The correct answer is C. In renal failure, the kidneys lose the ability to regulate pH by controlling bicarbonate levels in the extracellular fluid (ECF). The kidneys can regenerate and reabsorb bicarbonate ions to maintain a stable pH. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because the kidneys do not primarily regulate or reabsorb carbonic acid, buffer acids through electrolyte changes, or combine carbonic acid and bicarbonate to maintain pH. The key function of the kidneys in maintaining pH balance lies in the control of bicarbonate levels.

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How would a decrease in blood protein concentration impact the fluid volumes?

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Correct Answer: D. increase interstitial fluid volume and decrease blood plasma volume.

Explanation:

A decrease in blood protein concentration would lead to a reduction in osmotic pressure, which is responsible for drawing fluid back into the capillaries. This decrease in osmotic pressure would result in an increase in interstitial fluid volume as fluid moves out of the capillaries, and a decrease in blood plasma volume as less fluid is drawn back into the circulation. Therefore, the correct answer is to increase interstitial fluid volume and decrease blood plasma volume. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not reflect the impact of decreased blood protein concentration on fluid volumes.

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. A 73-year-old man comes into the emergency department (ED) by ambulance after slipping on a small carpet in his home. The patient fell on his hip with a resultant fracture. He is alert and oriented; his pupils are equal and reactive to light and accommodation. His heart rate is elevated, he is anxious and thirsty, a Foley catheter is placed, and 40 mL of urine is present. What is the nurses most likely explanation for the low urine output?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. The man is having a sympathetic reaction, which has stimulated the reninangiotensinaldosterone system that results in diminished urine output.

Explanation:

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A nurse assesses a client who is experiencing an acid-base imbalance. The clients arterial blood gas values are pH 7.34, PaO2 88 mm Hg, PaCO2 38 mm Hg, and HCO3 19 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse perform first?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. . Cardiac rate and rhythm

Explanation:

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A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving an epidural infusion for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate intervention from the nurse?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Report of headache and stiff neck

Explanation:

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Which hormones increase the amount of water in the body?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. ADH and aldosterone

Explanation:

The correct answer is D, ADH and aldosterone. Both antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and aldosterone increase water retention by the kidneys, thereby increasing blood volume. ADH acts on the kidneys to increase water reabsorption, while aldosterone acts on the kidneys to promote sodium reabsorption, leading to water retention. Choice A, ADH, is partially correct as it alone increases water retention. Choice B, aldosterone, is also partially correct as it alone increases water retention. Choice C, ANH (atrial natriuretic hormone), actually decreases water retention by promoting sodium excretion and inhibiting aldosterone release.

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You are caring for a 65-year-old male patient admitted to your medical unit 72 hours ago with pyloric stenosis. A nasogastric tube placed upon admission has been on low intermittent suction ever since. Upon review of the mornings blood work, you notice that the patients potassium is below reference range. You should recognize that the patient may be at risk for what imbalance?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Metabolic alkalosis

Explanation:

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A female patient is discharged from the hospital after having an episode of heart failure. She's prescribed daily oral doses of digoxin (Lanoxin) and furosemide (Lasix). Two days later, she tells her community health nurse that she feels weak and her heart 'flutters' frequently. What action should the nurse take?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Call the physician, report the symptoms, and request to draw a blood sample to determine the patient's potassium level.

Explanation:

The correct action for the nurse to take is to call the physician, report the symptoms, and request to draw a blood sample to determine the patient's potassium level. Furosemide is a potassium-wasting diuretic, and low potassium levels can lead to weakness and palpitations. Resting more often won't address the underlying issue of hypokalemia caused by furosemide. While digoxin can have side effects, it is not causing the symptoms described by the patient. Avoiding caffeine may be beneficial, but addressing the potassium level is more critical in this situation.

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A patient's lab results show a slight decrease in potassium. The physician has declined to treat with drug therapy but has suggested increasing the potassium through diet. Which of the following would be a good source of potassium?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Bananas

Explanation:

Bananas are an excellent source of potassium, making them a good choice to increase potassium levels through diet. While apples, asparagus, and carrots are nutritious, they are not particularly high in potassium compared to bananas. Therefore, choosing bananas would be more effective in increasing the patient's potassium intake.

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A nurse in the neurologic ICU has orders to infuse a hypertonic solution into a patient with increased intracranial pressure. This solution will increase the number of dissolved particles in the patient's blood, creating pressure for fluids in the tissues to shift into the capillaries and increase the blood volume. This process is best described as which of the following?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Osmosis and osmolality

Explanation:

The correct answer is B: Osmosis and osmolality. Osmosis is the movement of fluid from a region of low solute concentration to a region of high solute concentration across a semipermeable membrane. In this case, the hypertonic solution increases the number of dissolved particles in the blood, causing fluids to shift into the capillaries due to the osmotic pressure gradient. Osmolality refers to the concentration of solutes in a solution. Hydrostatic pressure refers to changes in water or volume related to water pressure, not the movement of fluids due to solute concentration differences. Diffusion is the movement of solutes from an area of greater concentration to lesser concentration; in an intact vascular system, solutes are unable to move freely, so diffusion does not play a significant role in this scenario. Active transport involves the movement of molecules against the concentration gradient with the use of energy, typically at the cellular level, and is not related to the vascular volume changes described in the question.

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A nurse assesses a client who is prescribed furosemide (Lasix) for hypertension. For which acid-base imbalance should the nurse assess to prevent complications of this therapy?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Metabolic alkalosis

Explanation:

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You are caring for a patient with a diagnosis of pancreatitis. The patient was admitted from a homeless shelter and is a vague historian. The patient appears malnourished and on day 3 of the patients admission total parenteral nutrition (TPN) has been started. Why would you know to start the infusion of TPN slowly?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Malnourished patients receiving parenteral nutrition are at risk for hypophosphatemia if calories are started too aggressively.

Explanation:

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A nurse admitting a patient with a history of emphysema reviews her past lab reports and notes that the patient's PaCO2 has been 56 to 64 mmHg. The nurse will be cautious administering oxygen because:

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: D. Using oxygen may result in the patient developing carbon dioxide narcosis and hypoxemia.

Explanation:

When PaCO2 chronically exceeds 50 mm Hg, it creates insensitivity to CO2 in the respiratory medulla, and the use of oxygen may result in the patient developing carbon dioxide narcosis and hypoxemia. Choice A is incorrect because administering oxygen does not lead to a dramatic rise in calcium due to pituitary stimulation. Choice B is incorrect because administering oxygen does not directly increase intracranial pressure or create confusion. Choice C is incorrect because administering oxygen to a patient with emphysema and high PaCO2 levels is more likely to cause respiratory depression than hyperventilation and acidosis.

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The nurse who assesses the patient's peripheral IV site and notes edema around the insertion site will document which complication related to IV therapy?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Infiltration

Explanation:

Infiltration is the administration of non-vesicant solution or medication into the surrounding tissue. This can occur when the IV cannula dislodges or perforates the vein's wall. Infiltration is characterized by edema around the insertion site, leakage of IV fluid from the insertion site, discomfort, and coolness in the area of infiltration, and a significant decrease in the flow rate. Air emboli (Choice A) involves air entering the bloodstream. Phlebitis (Choice B) is inflammation of a vein. Fluid overload (Choice D) is an excessive volume of fluid in the circulatory system.

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A patient has questioned the nurses administration of IV normal saline, asking whether sterile water would be a more appropriate choice than saltwater. Under what circumstances would the nurse administer electrolyte-free water intravenously?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. Never, because it rapidly enters red blood cells, causing them to rupture.

Explanation:

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You are the nurse evaluating a newly admitted patients laboratory results, which include several values that are outside of reference ranges. Which of the following would cause the release of antidiuretic hormone (ADH)?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. Increased serum sodium

Explanation:

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When considering overhydration:

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. can be caused by giving intravenous fluids too rapidly.

Explanation:

The correct answer is C. Overhydration can occur when intravenous fluids are administered too quickly, overwhelming the body's ability to excrete the excess fluid. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Choice A is incorrect because overhydration is less common than dehydration. Choice B is incorrect because while overhydration can strain the kidneys, it is not due to the burden being too heavy. Choice D is incorrect because dehydration is more common than overhydration.

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The nurse is admitting a patient with a suspected fluid imbalance. The most sensitive indicator of body fluid balance is:

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. Daily weight

Explanation:

Daily weight is the most sensitive indicator of body fluid balance because it can show trends over time, helping in assessing the effectiveness of interventions and medications. While serum sodium levels provide objective data on electrolyte balance, they may not accurately reflect fluid balance, especially if a patient is dehydrated. Measured intake and output are crucial for assessing fluid balance, but it can be challenging to match the two due to various ways fluid is lost from the body. Blood pressure and other vital signs may not always be reliable indicators of fluid balance as they can be influenced by other factors beyond fluid status.

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A nurse is caring for a client with a peripheral vascular access device who is experiencing pain, redness, and swelling at the site. After removing the device, which action should the nurse take to relieve pain?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Place warm compresses on the site.

Explanation:

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The nurse in the medical ICU is caring for a patient who is in respiratory acidosis due to inadequate ventilation. What diagnosis could the patient have that could cause inadequate ventilation?

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Correct Answer: C. Guillain-Barr syndrome

Explanation:

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A patient with a longstanding diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder presents to the emergency room. The triage nurse notes upon assessment that the patient is hyperventilating. The triage nurse is aware that hyperventilation is the most common cause

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Correct Answer: B. Respiratory alkalosis

Explanation:

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A patient with a longstanding diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder presents to the emergency room. The triage nurse notes upon assessment that the patient is hyperventilating. The triage nurse is aware that hyperventilation is the most common cause of which acid-base imbalance?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: B. Respiratory alkalosis

Explanation:

The correct answer is B: Respiratory alkalosis. Hyperventilation, which can be caused by extreme anxiety, is the most common cause of acute respiratory alkalosis. This leads to a decrease in PaCO2 levels. Respiratory acidosis, choice A, occurs in conditions like hypoventilation, leading to an increase in PaCO2 levels. Choice C, Increased PaCO2, is not the correct term for an acid-base imbalance related to hyperventilation. Choice D, CNS disturbances, is not directly related to the acid-base imbalance caused by hyperventilation.

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You are working on a burns unit, and one of your acutely ill patients is exhibiting signs and symptoms of third spacing. Based on this change in status, you should expect the patient to exhibit signs and symptoms of what imbalance?

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Correct Answer: D. Hypovolemia

Explanation:

When a patient exhibits signs and symptoms of third-spacing, where fluid moves out of the intravascular space but not into the intracellular space, hypovolemia is expected. This leads to a decreased circulating blood volume. Increased calcium and magnesium levels are not typically associated with third-spacing fluid shift. Burns usually result in acidosis rather than alkalosis, making metabolic alkalosis an incorrect choice. Therefore, hypovolemia is the correct answer in this scenario.

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A nurse is assessing a client who has acute pancreatitis and is at risk for an acid-base imbalance. For which manifestation of this acid-base imbalance should the nurse assess?

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Correct Answer: B. Kussmaul respirations

Explanation:

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Extracellular fluid includes:

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Correct Answer: C. plasma and interstitial fluid.

Explanation:

The correct answer is C: 'plasma and interstitial fluid.' Extracellular fluid consists of all body fluids outside the cells, primarily including plasma (the liquid component of blood) and interstitial fluid (the fluid between cells). Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because intracellular fluid is located within the cells, not in the extracellular fluid compartment.

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A nurse is caring for a client who has the following laboratory results: potassium 3.4 mEq/L, magnesium 1.8 mEq/L, calcium 8.5 mEq/L, sodium 144 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse complete first?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: A. Depth of respirations

Explanation:

The correct answer is 'Depth of respirations.' In a client with electrolyte imbalances like low potassium (hypokalemia) and low magnesium (hypomagnesemia), respiratory changes, such as shallow respirations or respiratory muscle weakness, can occur and lead to respiratory compromise. Assessing the depth of respirations is crucial to evaluate respiratory function in this client. Bowel sounds, grip strength, and electrocardiography are also important assessments in different situations, but in this case, respiratory assessment takes priority due to the potential impact of electrolyte imbalances on breathing.

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When selecting a site on the hand or arm for insertion of an IV catheter, the nurse should:

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Correct Answer: B. Choose a distal site.

Explanation:

When selecting a site for insertion of an IV catheter, the nurse should choose a distal site, not a proximal site. Opting for a distal site ensures that upper veins remain available for future cannulations. Instructing the patient to hold their arm in a dependent position can enhance blood flow, aiding in the procedure. It is crucial never to leave a tourniquet on for more than 2 minutes as prolonged restriction can lead to complications. Choice A is incorrect because a proximal site is not preferred for IV insertion. Choice C is incorrect as having the patient hold their arm over their head is not necessary and may impede proper blood flow. Choice D is incorrect as leaving the tourniquet on for at least 5 minutes is excessive and can be harmful.

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You are called to your patients room by a family member who voices concern about the patients status. On assessment, you find the patient tachypnic, lethargic, weak, and exhibiting a diminished cognitive ability. You also find 3+ pitting edema. What electrolyte imbalance is the most plausible cause of this patients signs and symptoms?

Select the best answer.

Correct Answer: C. Hyperchloremia

Explanation:

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