a nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has hypokalemia which of the following findings should the nurse expect

ATI RN

ATI RN Exit Exam Test Bank

1. A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has hypokalemia. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. Serum potassium 5.4 mEq/L
B. Flat T waves
C. Elevated ST segments
D. Bradycardia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Flat T waves are a characteristic ECG finding in hypokalemia. Hypokalemia causes a decrease in serum potassium levels, leading to altered cardiac conduction. Flat T waves are associated with hypokalemia-induced cardiac dysrhythmias. Elevated ST segments are typically seen in conditions like myocardial infarction, not in hypokalemia. Bradycardia is not a typical manifestation of hypokalemia; instead, tachycardia may occur due to potassium imbalances affecting the heart's electrical activity.

2. Which medication is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism?

A. Methimazole
B. Levothyroxine
C. Propylthiouracil
D. Aspirin

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Methimazole is the correct answer. It is commonly used to treat hyperthyroidism by inhibiting the production of thyroid hormones. Levothyroxine, on the other hand, is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism by providing synthetic thyroid hormone. Propylthiouracil is another medication used to treat hyperthyroidism by blocking the production of thyroid hormones. Aspirin is not used to treat hyperthyroidism, but rather for pain relief and reducing inflammation.

3. A nurse is providing teaching to a client who is experiencing preterm contractions and dehydration. Which statement should the nurse make?

A. Dehydration is treated with calcium supplements.
B. Dehydration can increase the risk of preterm labor.
C. Dehydration is caused by decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit.
D. Dehydration causes gastroesophageal reflux.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct statement is B: 'Dehydration can increase the risk of preterm labor.' Dehydration can lead to increased uterine irritability, potentially causing preterm contractions and labor. Choice A is incorrect as dehydration is not treated with calcium supplements but rather with fluids. Choice C is incorrect as dehydration is not caused by decreased hemoglobin and hematocrit levels but rather by a lack of fluids. Choice D is incorrect as dehydration does not directly cause gastroesophageal reflux.

4. What is the initial intervention for a patient with chest pain?

A. Administer aspirin
B. Administer nitroglycerin
C. Provide pain relief
D. Prepare for surgery

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct initial intervention for a patient with chest pain is to administer aspirin. Aspirin helps reduce the risk of clot formation by inhibiting platelet aggregation, which can be beneficial in case the chest pain is due to a cardiac event. Administering nitroglycerin may follow aspirin administration to help relieve chest pain by dilating blood vessels. Providing pain relief is a general approach and may not address the underlying cause of chest pain. Preparing for surgery would not be the initial intervention for chest pain unless there are specific indications for immediate surgical intervention.

5. A nurse is caring for a client who has pneumonia. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Productive cough with green sputum
B. Temperature of 37.1Â°C (98.8Â°F)
C. Crackles in the lung bases
D. Oxygen saturation of 95%

Correct answer: C

Rationale: In a client with pneumonia, crackles in the lung bases can indicate fluid accumulation, worsening of the condition, or development of complications such as pulmonary edema. This finding should be reported to the provider promptly for further evaluation and management. Choices A, B, and D are common in clients with pneumonia and may not necessarily require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other concerning symptoms or vital sign abnormalities.