ATI RN
ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation
1. 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?
- A. Agitation
- B. Kussmaul respirations
- C. Seizures
- D. Positive Chvosteks sign
Correct answer: B
Rationale:
2. 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. Depth of respirations
- B. Bowel sounds
- C. Grip strength
- D. Electrocardiography
Correct answer: A
Rationale: 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.
3. The healthcare professional working in the PACU is aware that which of the following procedures may contribute to extracellular losses?
- A. Removal of an ingrown toenail
- B. Tooth extraction
- C. Abdominal surgery
- D. Cataract surgery
Correct answer: C
Rationale: 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.
4. 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?
- A. Hypocalcemia
- B. Hyponatremia
- C. Hyperchloremia
- D. Hypophosphatemia
Correct answer: C
Rationale:
5. Which of the following organs does not contribute to fluid output from the body?
- A. Lungs
- B. Skin
- C. Intestine
- D. Lungs, skin, and intestine
Correct answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D. All the listed organs (lungs, skin, and intestines) contribute to fluid loss from the body. Lungs contribute to fluid loss through respiration, skin through sweating, and intestines through excretion. Therefore, none of the organs listed in the options retain fluids within the body. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because all of these organs play a role in fluid output from the body.
Similar Questions
Access More Features
ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access
ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days
- 5,000 Questions with answers
- All ATI courses Coverage
- 30 days access