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. What are the risk factors for developing pneumonia in older adults?

A. Immobility and decreased lung function
B. Poor hygiene and aspiration
C. Use of respiratory equipment and medications
D. Poor nutritional status and compromised immune system

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Immobility and decreased lung function. Older adults with immobility and decreased lung function are at a higher risk of developing pneumonia. Immobility can lead to decreased lung expansion and impaired clearance of secretions, predisposing to pneumonia. While poor hygiene, aspiration, use of respiratory equipment, medications, poor nutritional status, and compromised immune system can also contribute to pneumonia risk, they are not as directly associated with pneumonia in older adults as immobility and decreased lung function.

3. What are the risk factors for the development of pressure ulcers, and how can they be prevented?

A. Immobility and poor nutrition
B. Increased mobility and proper hygiene
C. Excess moisture and lack of movement
D. Frequent turning and repositioning

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Immobility and poor nutrition are significant risk factors for pressure ulcers. Immobility leads to prolonged pressure on certain body areas, increasing the risk of tissue damage. Poor nutrition can impair skin integrity and the body's ability to heal. Prevention strategies include frequent turning and repositioning to relieve pressure points. Choice B is incorrect because increased mobility actually reduces the risk of pressure ulcers. Choice C is incorrect as excess moisture can contribute to skin breakdown, but it is not a primary risk factor. Choice D is incorrect as frequent turning and repositioning are part of the prevention measures, not risk factors.

4. A nurse in a provider's office is collecting data from a preschooler. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

A. Heart rate 80/min
B. Heart rate 90/min
C. Respiratory rate 28/min
D. Heart rate 146/min

Correct answer: D

Rationale: A heart rate of 146/min is abnormal for a preschooler and indicates tachycardia, which should be reported to the provider. Choices A, B, and C fall within normal ranges for a preschooler's heart rate (80-120/min) and respiratory rate (22-34/min), so they do not require immediate reporting. Option D is the correct answer as it deviates significantly from the normal range and may indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention.

5. A nurse is providing discharge instructions for a client using home oxygen. What is the most important safety measure?

A. Store oxygen tanks in a closet when not in use
B. Ensure that oxygen tanks are kept upright and away from heat sources
C. Allow family members to smoke in designated areas
D. Restrict fluid intake while using oxygen

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Ensure that oxygen tanks are kept upright and away from heat sources. This is the most important safety measure to prevent accidents related to home oxygen use. Storing oxygen tanks in a closet when not in use (choice A) is not recommended as they should be stored in a well-ventilated area. Allowing family members to smoke in designated areas (choice C) poses a significant fire hazard. Restricting fluid intake while using oxygen (choice D) is not a safety measure related to oxygen use.