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

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 teaches a client who is being discharged home with a peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC). Which statement should the nurse include in this clients teaching?

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

3. A nurse develops a plan of care for a client who has a history of hypocalcemia. What interventions should the nurse include in this clients care plan? (Select all that apply.)

Correct answer: B

Rationale:

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

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.

5. A nurse assesses a client who is prescribed a medication that inhibits aldosterone secretion and release. For which potential complications should the nurse assess? (Select all that apply.)

Correct answer: A

Rationale:

Similar Questions

Which electrolyte is important in the formation of the thyroid hormones?
A patient is taking spironolactone (Aldactone) to control her hypertension. Her serum potassium level is 6 mEq/L. For this patient, the nurse's priority would be to assess her:
Under normal circumstances, the kidneys provide the greatest means of water loss. Which organ provides the second greatest means of water loss?
A nurse is caring for a client who has just experienced a 90-second tonic-clonic seizure. The clients arterial blood gas values are pH 6.88, PaO2 50 mm Hg, PaCO2 60 mm Hg, and HCO3 22 mEq/L. Which action should the nurse take first?
The nurse is assessing the patient for the presence of a Chvostek's sign. What electrolyte imbalance does a positive Chvostek's sign indicate?

Access More Features

ATI RN Basic
$69.99/ 30 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

ATI RN Premium
$149.99/ 90 days

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • All ATI courses Coverage
  • 30 days access

Other Courses