a nurse is caring for a patient who requires measurement of specific gravity every 4 hours what does this test detect
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Fluid and Electrolytes

1. A nurse is caring for a patient who requires measurement of specific gravity every 4 hours. What does this test detect?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Specific gravity is a test used to determine the concentration of solutes in the urine, reflecting the kidney's ability to concentrate urine. Changes in specific gravity can indicate fluid volume status, such as dehydration (fluid volume deficit) or overhydration (fluid volume excess). Options A, B, and C are incorrect as specific gravity does not directly detect nutritional deficits, hyperkalemia, or hypercalcemia.

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?

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.

3. The nurse is assessing the patient for the presence of a Chvostek's sign. What electrolyte imbalance does a positive Chvostek's sign indicate?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Chvostek's sign is characterized by a brief contraction of the upper lip, nose, or side of the face and is indicative of hypocalcemia, making choice C the correct answer. Hypomagnesemia (choice B) is associated with Trousseau's sign, not Chvostek's sign. Hypermagnesemia (choice A) is not related to Chvostek's sign. Hyperkalemia (choice D) is not typically associated with Chvostek's sign; instead, it may present with muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias.

4. 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

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

5. 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?

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

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