extracellular fluid includes
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ATI RN

ATI Fluid and Electrolytes

1. Extracellular fluid includes:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'plasma and interstitial fluid.' Extracellular fluid consists of all body fluids outside the cells, primarily including plasma (the liquid component of blood) and interstitial fluid (the fluid between cells). Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because intracellular fluid is located within the cells, not in the extracellular fluid compartment.

2. The chief mechanism for maintaining fluid balance is to:

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'adjust fluid output so it equals fluid input.' Maintaining fluid balance involves ensuring that the amount of fluid lost through processes like urination, sweating, and respiration equals the amount of fluid taken in. This ensures that the body stays properly hydrated. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not focus on the balance between fluid input and output, which is crucial for maintaining proper fluid balance. By adjusting fluid output to equal fluid input, the body can regulate hydration levels effectively, preventing dehydration or overhydration.

3. 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:

4. How would a decrease in blood protein concentration impact the fluid volumes?

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A decrease in blood protein concentration would lead to a reduction in osmotic pressure, which is responsible for drawing fluid back into the capillaries. This decrease in osmotic pressure would result in an increase in interstitial fluid volume as fluid moves out of the capillaries, and a decrease in blood plasma volume as less fluid is drawn back into the circulation. Therefore, the correct answer is to increase interstitial fluid volume and decrease blood plasma volume. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they do not reflect the impact of decreased blood protein concentration on fluid volumes.

5. 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: 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.

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