what are the key signs of hyperkalemia and how should it be treated

ATI LPN

ATI NCLEX PN Predictor Test

1. What are the key signs of hyperkalemia and how should it be treated?

A. Elevated potassium levels, muscle weakness; administer calcium gluconate
B. Decreased potassium levels, confusion; administer potassium chloride
C. Elevated sodium levels, bradycardia; administer sodium bicarbonate
D. Low sodium levels, muscle cramps; administer sodium chloride

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct signs of hyperkalemia include elevated potassium levels and muscle weakness. The treatment involves administering calcium gluconate to help stabilize the heart. Choice B is incorrect as hyperkalemia is characterized by elevated, not decreased, potassium levels. Choice C is incorrect as hyperkalemia does not involve elevated sodium levels, and the treatment is not sodium bicarbonate. Choice D is incorrect as hyperkalemia does not lead to low sodium levels, and sodium chloride is not the treatment for hyperkalemia.

2. A nurse in a long-term care facility is reviewing information about health care-associated infections with a newly licensed nurse. Which of the following information should the nurse include?

A. Frequent hand washing prevents infection
B. Prolonged use of corticosteroids increases infection risk
C. Limit patient interaction to reduce infection spread
D. Restrict client movement to prevent contamination

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B because prolonged use of corticosteroids is a known risk factor for infections. Choice A is incorrect because frequent hand washing actually helps prevent infections. Choice C is incorrect as patient interaction is essential in healthcare but should be done following proper infection control measures. Choice D is also incorrect as restricting client movement is not a standard practice to prevent contamination.

3. A client undergoing bariatric surgery is being taught about postoperative dietary changes by a nurse. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the teaching?

A. I will drink carbonated beverages after surgery
B. I will eat large meals after surgery
C. I will avoid consuming solid foods for several weeks
D. I will avoid taking small sips of liquids

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C because avoiding solid foods after bariatric surgery is crucial to prevent complications and promote healing. Choice A is incorrect as carbonated beverages can cause discomfort and should be avoided. Choice B is incorrect as large meals are not suitable after bariatric surgery. Choice D is incorrect as taking small sips of liquids is encouraged to prevent dehydration and promote recovery.

4. Which dietary advice is most appropriate for a client with chronic kidney disease?

A. Increase intake of fruits and vegetables
B. Limit intake of potassium-rich foods
C. Increase intake of dairy products
D. Reduce intake of protein-rich foods

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The most appropriate dietary advice for a client with chronic kidney disease is to limit intake of potassium-rich foods. In chronic kidney disease, the kidneys have difficulty filtering potassium from the blood, leading to high levels that can be harmful. Therefore, reducing potassium intake is crucial to prevent complications. Choices A, C, and D are not the best options for individuals with chronic kidney disease. Increasing intake of fruits and vegetables (choice A) may actually increase potassium consumption. Increasing intake of dairy products (choice C) can lead to higher phosphorus and potassium levels. Reducing protein-rich foods (choice D) is not the primary focus in the early stages of chronic kidney disease, as protein is necessary for overall health unless kidney function declines significantly.

5. What are the signs and symptoms of a potential infection?

A. Fever, chills, and increased heart rate
B. Increased white blood cell count and fever
C. Shortness of breath and confusion
D. Sweating and low blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Fever, chills, and increased heart rate are classic signs of an infection. These symptoms indicate the body's response to an invading pathogen. Choice B, 'Increased white blood cell count and fever,' is not a primary symptom that a person would typically notice themselves, and white blood cell count needs to be tested. Choice C, 'Shortness of breath and confusion,' may indicate other conditions like heart or lung issues rather than a general infection. Choice D, 'Sweating and low blood pressure,' are not specific to infections and can be caused by various factors like heat or dehydration.