how should a nurse assess a patient with hyperkalemia
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ATI Comprehensive Predictor PN

1. How should a healthcare professional assess a patient with hyperkalemia?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Question: When assessing a patient with hyperkalemia, monitoring the ECG and administering insulin are crucial steps. Hyperkalemia can affect the heart's function, leading to life-threatening arrhythmias. Monitoring the ECG helps in identifying any cardiac abnormalities associated with high potassium levels. Administering insulin, along with glucose, helps shift potassium from the bloodstream into the cells, temporarily lowering the potassium levels. Choice B is incorrect because monitoring blood glucose levels and providing fluids are not the primary interventions for hyperkalemia. Choice C is incorrect as monitoring for muscle weakness and administering calcium gluconate are not the first-line treatments for hyperkalemia. Calcium gluconate may be used in specific situations to stabilize cardiac cell membranes in severe cases of hyperkalemia. Choice D is incorrect because monitoring electrolyte levels and providing potassium supplements would worsen hyperkalemia, as the patient already has elevated potassium levels and does not require additional potassium supplementation.

2. A nurse is caring for a client with an NG tube who reports nausea and a decrease in gastric secretions. What is the nurse's next step?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct next step for the nurse is to irrigate the NG tube with sterile water. This action helps relieve blockages that may be causing the symptoms of nausea and decreased gastric secretions. Administering an antiemetic (Choice A) may mask the underlying issue without addressing the possible blockage. Increasing the suction setting (Choice C) is not indicated without first addressing the potential blockage. Replacing the NG tube (Choice D) is also premature before attempting to clear any obstructions.

3. A client with a sprained right ankle is learning to walk with a cane. What action demonstrates effective teaching?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client has a sprained right ankle, they should hold the cane in the opposite hand (left hand) to the affected leg for better support and balance. This positioning helps to reduce the weight on the injured leg while providing stability. Option A is incorrect because advancing the cane too far in front can lead to loss of balance. Option C is incorrect as it does not provide the necessary support for the injured leg. Option D is incorrect as the elbow should be slightly flexed but not necessarily at a specific angle.

4. A client has undergone a myelogram, and a nurse is providing post-procedure care. Which action should be included in the nursing care plan?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct action to include in the nursing care plan for a client post-myelogram is to evaluate the client's distal pulses on the affected side. This is crucial to assess circulation and detect any potential complications such as impaired blood flow or vascular issues. Encouraging ambulation after the procedure (Choice A) is not typically recommended immediately post-myelogram, as the client may need to rest. Maintaining the prone position for 12 hours (Choice B) is an outdated practice and is no longer part of standard care post-myelogram. Encouraging oral fluid intake (Choice D) is generally beneficial for hydration but is not a specific priority related to post-myelogram care.

5. How should a healthcare provider assess and manage a patient with anemia?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Question: To assess and manage a patient with anemia, monitoring hemoglobin levels and providing iron supplements are crucial. Anemia is commonly caused by iron deficiency, making iron supplementation a cornerstone of treatment. B12 injections (Choice B) are more relevant for treating megaloblastic anemia, not the typical iron-deficiency anemia. Monitoring for signs of infection and administering folic acid (Choice C) are important in specific types of anemia like megaloblastic anemia, but not the first-line approach for anemia management. Administering oxygen therapy (Choice D) is not the primary intervention for anemia unless severe hypoxemia is present, which is not typically seen in anemia.

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