Questions 9

ATI RN

ATI RN Test Bank

ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Questions

Question 1 of 5

A nurse assesses a client who is prescribed furosemide (Lasix) for hypertension. For which acid-base imbalance should the nurse assess to prevent complications of this therapy?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: Metabolic alkalosis. Furosemide, a loop diuretic, can lead to potassium depletion and metabolic alkalosis due to excessive loss of chloride and hydrogen ions. The nurse should assess for signs of metabolic alkalosis such as confusion, muscle weakness, and dysrhythmias to prevent complications. Respiratory acidosis and alkalosis are not directly related to furosemide therapy. Metabolic acidosis is less likely due to furosemide's mechanism of action.

Question 2 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 3 of 5

When planning the care of a patient with a fluid imbalance, the nurse understands that in the human body, water and electrolytes move from the arterial capillary bed to the interstitial fluid. What causes this to occur?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D. Hydrostatic pressure resulting from the pumping action of the heart causes water and electrolytes to move from the arterial capillary bed to the interstitial fluid. This occurs due to the force exerted by the heart's pumping action, pushing fluid out of the capillaries into the interstitial space. This process is known as filtration and is essential for maintaining fluid balance in the body. Summary of other choices: A: Active transport of hydrogen ions does not directly cause the movement of water and electrolytes between capillaries and interstitial fluid. B: The pressure in renal capillaries specifically relates to the kidneys, not the general movement of water and electrolytes in the body. C: The dissolved particles in blood do not directly contribute to the movement of water and electrolytes between capillaries and interstitial fluid.

Question 4 of 5

A nurse is assessing a client with hypokalemia and notes that the client's handgrip strength has diminished since the previous assessment 1 hour ago. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take first is to assess the client's respiratory rate, rhythm, and depth (Choice A). Diminished handgrip strength in a client with hypokalemia could indicate potential respiratory muscle weakness, which can lead to respiratory distress or failure. By assessing the client's respiratory status, the nurse can determine if immediate intervention is needed to support breathing. Choice B is incorrect because measuring the client's pulse and blood pressure may not address the underlying issue of respiratory muscle weakness. Choice C is incorrect as it delays potential life-saving interventions by simply documenting findings. Choice D is incorrect as calling the healthcare provider should come after addressing the client's immediate respiratory needs.

Question 5 of 5

A patient has questioned the nurses administration of IV normal saline, asking whether sterile water would be a more appropriate choice than saltwater. Under what circumstances would the nurse administer electrolyte-free water intravenously?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because electrolyte-free water, such as sterile water, can rapidly enter red blood cells due to osmotic differences, causing them to swell and potentially rupture, leading to hemolysis. This can result in severe harm to the patient. Choice B is incorrect because electrolyte-free water is not indicated for severely dehydrated patients with neurologic signs and symptoms. They require electrolytes to correct their imbalances. Choice C is incorrect as administering electrolyte-free water would not address excess calcium and/or magnesium ions in the body. Specific treatments for hypercalcemia or hypermagnesemia are needed. Choice D is incorrect because patients with fluid deficits due to renal failure require electrolyte-balanced solutions to manage their condition effectively. Electrolyte-free water would not address the electrolyte imbalances associated with renal failure.

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