ATI RN
ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation
1. A medical-surgical nurse is concerned about the incidence of complications related to IV therapy, including bloodstream infection. Which intervention should the nurse suggest to the management team to make the biggest impact on decreasing complications
- A. Initiate a dedicated team to insert access devices
 - B. . Require additional education for all nurses.
 - C. Limit the use of peripheral venous access devices.
 - D. Perform quality control testing on skin preparation products.
 
Correct answer: A
Rationale:
2. Third spacing occurs when fluid moves out of the intravascular space but not into the intracellular space. Based on this fluid shift, the nurse will expect the patient to demonstrate:
- A. Hypertension
 - B. Bradycardia
 - C. Hypervolemia
 - D. Hypovolemia
 
Correct answer: D
Rationale: In the scenario of third-spacing fluid shift, where fluid moves out of the intravascular space but not into the intracellular space, the patient is expected to demonstrate hypovolemia. Hypertension (Choice A) is unlikely as hypovolemia typically leads to decreased blood pressure. Bradycardia (Choice B) is not a common manifestation of hypovolemia, as the body often tries to compensate by increasing heart rate. Hypervolemia (Choice C) indicates an excess of fluid, which is the opposite of what occurs in third spacing.
3. 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?
- A. Assess the client's dietary intake of foods high in potassium.
 - B. Assess the client's neuromuscular status.
 - C. Assess the client's fluid intake and output.
 - D. Read food labels to determine sodium content.
 
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is to read food labels to determine sodium content. The client's sodium level is crucial to monitor as it is on the higher side (144 mEq/L), which can indicate hypernatremia. Excessive sodium intake can lead to fluid retention and other complications. Assessing dietary sodium intake can help the nurse and client make necessary adjustments to prevent further sodium imbalances. Choices A, B, and C are not the priority in this situation as the client's sodium level needs immediate attention to prevent potential complications.
4. You are the surgical nurse caring for a 65-year-old female patient who is postoperative day 1 following a thyroidectomy. During your shift assessment, the patient complains of tingling in her lips and fingers. She tells you that she has an intermittent spasm in her wrist and hand, and she exhibits increased muscle tone. What electrolyte imbalance should you first suspect?
- A. Hypophosphatemia
 - B. Hypocalcemia
 - C. Hypermagnesemia
 - D. Hyperkalemia
 
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The symptoms described, including tingling in the lips and fingers, intermittent spasms, and increased muscle tone, are indicative of tetany, which is a common manifestation of hypocalcemia. Hypocalcemia can lead to neuromuscular irritability, causing symptoms such as paresthesias and muscle spasms. Hypophosphatemia primarily affects the central nervous system, resulting in seizures and coma. Hypermagnesemia typically presents with hypoactive reflexes and somnolence. Hyperkalemia can cause paresthesias and anxiety, but in this case, the patient's symptoms are more suggestive of hypocalcemia.
5. A nurse develops a plan of care for a client who has a history of hypocalcemia. What interventions should the nurse include in this clients care plan? (Select all that apply.)
- A. Use a draw sheet to reposition the client in bed.
 - B. . Strain all urine output and assess for urinary stones.
 - C. Provide nonslip footwear for the client to use when out of bed.
 - D.
 
Correct answer: B
Rationale:
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