how should a nurse respond to a patient with hypokalemia
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Nursing Elites

ATI LPN

ATI PN Comprehensive Predictor 2020

1. How should a healthcare professional respond to a patient with hypokalemia?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Hypokalemia is managed by administering potassium supplements to correct the low potassium levels in the body. Monitoring the ECG is essential because low potassium levels can lead to cardiac arrhythmias. Choice B is incorrect as restricting fluid intake and providing a high-sodium diet are not appropriate for managing hypokalemia. Choice C is incorrect because hypokalemia involves low potassium levels, not sodium levels, and insulin therapy does not directly address this issue. Choice D is incorrect as calcium supplements are not indicated for hypokalemia, and monitoring for hyperkalemia is not relevant in this case.

2. A nurse is caring for a client who delivered a full-term newborn 16 hours ago. The nurse notes excessive lochia discharge. Which of the following actions should the nurse take first?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Performing a fundal massage is the priority action in a postpartum client experiencing excessive lochia discharge. Fundal massage helps prevent postpartum hemorrhage by ensuring the uterus contracts effectively. Administering pain medication, checking the baby's heart rate, and applying an ice pack are not the initial interventions needed to address excessive lochia discharge.

3. How should a healthcare professional assess a patient with suspected sepsis?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: When assessing a patient with suspected sepsis, it is crucial to monitor vital signs like temperature, heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood pressure. Administering antibiotics promptly is also vital to treat the infection causing sepsis. This approach helps in preventing the progression of sepsis to severe stages and reduces the risk of complications. Choice B is incorrect because only monitoring signs of infection and confusion may delay necessary treatment with antibiotics. Choice C is incorrect as it focuses only on fever and oxygen saturation, missing other important vital signs. Choice D is incorrect because assessing for confusion alone is not sufficient, and administering fluids should be guided by the patient's fluid status rather than being an initial step in suspected sepsis assessment.

4. Which instruction is crucial for a client with diabetes being discharged?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Administering insulin before meals as prescribed is crucial for a client with diabetes being discharged because it ensures proper blood sugar control. Choice A is incorrect because insulin should not be taken only when feeling unwell; it should be taken as prescribed. Choice C is incorrect as monitoring blood sugar levels weekly may not provide timely adjustments to insulin doses. Choice D is incorrect as checking blood sugar only once in the morning is not sufficient for proper diabetes management.

5. What should a person recommend to a client experiencing constipation?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Increasing dietary fiber is an effective recommendation for clients experiencing constipation as it helps promote regular bowel movements. Choice A, increasing fluid intake, is also important but the most appropriate initial recommendation for constipation is to increase dietary fiber. Choice C, administering a laxative, should not be the first-line recommendation and is typically considered after dietary and lifestyle interventions. Choice D, encouraging bed rest, does not directly address constipation relief or prevention.

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