Nursing Elites

1. What is the most abundant positive ion in blood plasma?

• A. Potassium.
• B. Calcium.
• C. Sodium.
• D. Both potassium and sodium are in equal concentrations.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Sodium. Sodium (Na+) is the most abundant cation in the extracellular fluid, including blood plasma. It plays a crucial role in maintaining fluid balance, nerve function, and is essential for various physiological processes. Choice A, Potassium, is also an important ion in the body but is predominantly found intracellularly. Choice B, Calcium, is an essential mineral in the body but is not the most abundant positive ion in blood plasma. Choice D is incorrect as sodium is the primary positive ion in blood plasma, with a much higher concentration compared to potassium.

2. A nurse is assessing a client who has acute pancreatitis and is at risk for an acid-base imbalance. For which manifestation of this acid-base imbalance should the nurse assess?

• A. Agitation
• B. Kussmaul respirations
• C. Seizures
• D. Positive Chvosteks sign

Correct answer: B

Rationale:

3. A patient's most recent laboratory results show a slight decrease in potassium. The physician has opted to forego drug therapy but has suggested increasing the patient's dietary intake of potassium. Which of the following would be a good source of potassium?

• A. Apples
• B. Asparagus
• C. Carrots
• D. Bananas

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Bananas are an excellent source of potassium. They are a popular choice for increasing dietary potassium intake due to their rich potassium content. Apples, asparagus, and carrots do not contain as high levels of potassium as bananas. While these fruits and vegetables are nutritious, they are not as effective in addressing a potassium deficiency as bananas.

4. You are caring for a patient with a secondary diagnosis of hypermagnesemia. What assessment finding would be most consistent with this diagnosis?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Kussmaul respirations
• C. Increased DTRs
• D. Shallow respirations

Correct answer: D

Rationale:

5. Extracellular fluid includes:

• A. plasma and intracellular fluid.
• B. interstitial and intracellular fluids.
• C. plasma and interstitial fluid.
• D. plasma, interstitial fluid, and intracellular fluid.

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.

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