ATI RN
ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Questions
Question 1 of 5
A client at risk for mild hypernatremia is being taught by a nurse. Which statement should the nurse include in this client's teaching?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. Reading food labels to determine sodium content is important in managing mild hypernatremia. This allows the client to monitor and control their sodium intake, which can help prevent further elevation of sodium levels. Weighing oneself or checking the pulse does not directly address sodium intake. Choosing cooking methods like baking or grilling is more about reducing fat intake, not sodium.
Question 2 of 5
A nurse is assessing clients for fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Which client should the nurse assess first for potential hyponatremia?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because intravenous D5W is a hypotonic solution that can lead to dilutional hyponatremia. D5W does not contain sodium, so it can cause a decrease in serum sodium levels. Clients on NPO status receiving D5W are at higher risk due to lack of sodium intake.
Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly contribute to hyponatremia. Sulfonamide antibiotics, ibuprofen, and digoxin are not typically associated with causing hyponatremia.
Therefore, assessing the client on NPO status receiving D5W for potential hyponatremia is the priority.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has the following laboratory results: potassium 3.4 mEq/L, magnesium 1.8 mEq/L, calcium 8.5 mEq/L, sodium 144 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse complete first?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Read food labels to determine sodium content. The nurse should assess the client's sodium level of 144 mEq/L, which is slightly above the normal range. High sodium intake can lead to fluid retention, hypertension, and other health issues. By reading food labels to determine sodium content, the nurse can identify sources of high sodium intake in the client's diet and provide appropriate dietary recommendations. This assessment is crucial in managing the client's sodium levels and overall health.
Assessing the client's dietary intake of foods high in potassium (
Choice
A) is not the priority in this case since the client's potassium level is within the normal range. Assessing the client's neuromuscular status (
Choice
B) is important but not the first priority when considering the electrolyte imbalances present. Assessing the client's fluid intake and output (
Choice
C) is also important but does not address the immediate concern related to the client's elevated sodium level.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has the following laboratory results: potassium 3.4 mEq/L, magnesium 1.8 mEq/L, calcium 8.5 mEq/L, sodium 144 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse complete first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct assessment for the nurse to complete first is A: Depth of respirations. Potassium and magnesium levels are crucial electrolytes that can affect cardiac function. Hypokalemia (low potassium) and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium) can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias. Checking the depth of respirations can provide valuable information on the client's respiratory status and potential respiratory distress due to electrolyte imbalances. This assessment takes precedence as addressing respiratory issues promptly is essential to prevent further complications. Assessing bowel sounds (
B), grip strength (
C), and electrocardiography (
D) are important but not as immediate as assessing respiratory status in this scenario.
Question 5 of 5
A client with a serum potassium of 7.5 mEq/L and cardiovascular changes needs immediate intervention. Which prescription should the nurse implement first?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C. The client's high serum potassium level of 7.5 mEq/L can lead to serious cardiovascular complications like arrhythmias. The immediate priority is to lower potassium levels rapidly to prevent cardiac arrest. Administering dextrose 20% and regular insulin IV push helps shift potassium from extracellular to intracellular space, lowering serum levels quickly. Option A (Kayexalate) is not as rapid as insulin therapy. Option B (low-potassium diet) is not immediate. Option D (hemodialysis) is effective but not as quick as insulin therapy for urgent potassium reduction.