electrolytes

ATI RN

ATI Fluid and Electrolytes

1. Electrolytes:

A. do not form when glucose is added to water.
B. dissociate in water solutions, but do not form ions.
C. form ions in water solutions, but do not necessarily dissociate.
D. dissociate in water solutions and form ions in water solutions.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. Electrolytes are substances that dissociate into ions when dissolved in water, allowing the solution to conduct electricity. Choice A is incorrect because glucose does not form electrolytes when added to water. Choice B is incorrect as it states that electrolytes dissociate but do not form ions, which is inaccurate as electrolytes do form ions in water solutions. Choice C is also incorrect as it states that electrolytes form ions but may not necessarily dissociate, which goes against the definition of electrolytes that must dissociate into ions for conductivity. Therefore, choice D is the most accurate as it correctly describes that electrolytes dissociate in water solutions and form ions, highlighting the essential characteristics of electrolytes.

2. Which hormone is made in the pituitary gland and increases water absorption in the kidney?

A. Intracellular fluid
B. Interstitial fluid
C. Plasma
D. ADH

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D, ADH (Antidiuretic hormone). ADH is produced by the pituitary gland and functions to increase water reabsorption in the kidneys. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect as they do not refer to a hormone responsible for increasing water absorption in the kidney.

3. A nurse is assessing clients for fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Which client should the nurse assess first for potential hyponatremia?

A. A 34-year-old on NPO status who is receiving intravenous D5W
B. A 50-year-old with an infection who is prescribed a sulfonamide antibiotic
C. A 67-year-old who is experiencing pain and is prescribed ibuprofen (Motrin)
D. A 73-year-old with tachycardia who is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is the 34-year-old on NPO status receiving intravenous D5W because D5W is a hypotonic solution that can dilute the blood's sodium levels, leading to hyponatremia. Patients on NPO status rely solely on intravenous fluids for hydration, making them more susceptible to electrolyte imbalances. Choices B, C, and D are less likely to cause hyponatremia. Choice B, the 50-year-old with an infection on a sulfonamide antibiotic, is at risk for allergic reactions or renal issues. Choice C, the 67-year-old taking ibuprofen, is at risk for gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney problems. Choice D, the 73-year-old on digoxin with tachycardia, is more likely to experience digoxin toxicity, affecting the heart's rhythm.

4. A patient is in the hospital with heart failure. The nurse notes during the evening assessment that the patient's neck veins are distended and the patient has dyspnea. What action should the nurse take?

A. Place the patient in low Fowler's position and notify the physician.
B. Increase the patient's IV fluid and auscultate the lungs.
C. Place the patient in semi-Fowler's position and prepare to give the PRN diuretic as ordered.
D. Discontinue the patient's IV.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The symptoms of distended neck veins and dyspnea indicate fluid overload in a patient with heart failure. Placing the patient in semi-Fowler's position helps with respiratory effort and administering diuretics, as ordered, can assist in reducing fluid volume. Placing the patient in low Fowler's position (Choice A) may not be as effective in improving breathing. Increasing IV fluid (Choice B) is contraindicated in fluid overload conditions. Discontinuing the IV (Choice D) is not the immediate intervention needed to address the symptoms of fluid overload.