Nursing Elites

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

• A. Regulate and reabsorb carbonic acid to change and maintain pH
• B. Buffer acids through electrolyte changes
• C. Regenerate and reabsorb bicarbonate to maintain a stable pH
• D. Combine carbonic acid and bicarbonate to maintain a stable pH

Correct answer: C

Rationale: 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.

2. Diagnostic testing has been ordered to differentiate between normal anion gap acidosis and high anion gap acidosis in an acutely ill patient. What health problem typically precedes normal anion gap acidosis?

• A. Metastases
• B. Excessive potassium intake
• C. Water intoxication
• D. Excessive administration of chloride

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

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?

• A. Hypermagnesemia
• B. Hypomagnesemia
• C. Hypocalcemia
• D. Hyperkalemia

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. Place a washcloth between the skin and tourniquet

• A. Provide a bed bath instead of letting the client take a shower
• B. Use sterile technique when changing the dressing.
• C. Disconnect the intravenous fluid tubing prior to the clients bath.
• D. Use a plastic bag to cover the extremity with the device

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

5. 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?

• A. Apples
• B. Asparagus
• C. Carrots
• D. Bananas

Correct answer: D

Rationale: 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.

Similar Questions