A patient has a serum calcium level of 7.0 mEq/L. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?

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Adult Health 2 HESI Quizlet Questions

Question 1 of 5

A patient has a serum calcium level of 7.0 mEq/L. Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A - 'The patient is experiencing laryngeal stridor.' Hypocalcemia can cause laryngeal stridor, which may lead to respiratory arrest. Rapid action is required to correct the patient's calcium level to prevent a life-threatening situation. Choices B, C, and D are also symptoms of hypocalcemia, but laryngeal stridor takes precedence due to its potential to quickly progress to a critical condition.

Question 2 of 5

A patient is receiving a 3% saline continuous IV infusion for hyponatremia. Which assessment data will require the most rapid response by the nurse?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Crackles throughout both lungs suggest that the patient may be experiencing pulmonary edema, a life-threatening adverse effect of hypertonic solutions. The increased pulse rate and blood pressure and the presence of sediment and blood in the urine should also be reported, but they are not as immediately dangerous as the presence of fluid in the alveoli, which compromises gas exchange and can lead to respiratory failure.

Question 3 of 5

A patient comes to the clinic complaining of frequent, watery stools for the last 2 days. Which action should the nurse take first?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the patient's blood pressure. Given the patient's symptoms of frequent, watery stools, there is a concern for fluid volume deficit. Assessing the blood pressure helps determine the patient's perfusion status, which is crucial in managing fluid volume deficits. While obtaining baseline weight, drawing blood for serum electrolyte levels, and asking about extremity numbness or tingling are important assessments, checking the blood pressure takes precedence as it provides immediate information on the patient's circulatory status.

Question 4 of 5

After receiving change-of-shift report, which patient should the nurse assess first?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is patient C with a serum magnesium level of 1.1 mEq/L who has tremors and hyperactive deep tendon reflexes. The low magnesium level and neuromuscular irritability suggest that the patient may be at risk for seizures, which are life-threatening. Assessing and addressing this patient's condition promptly is crucial to prevent complications. Patients A, B, and D have mild electrolyte disturbances or symptoms that require attention, but they are not at immediate risk for life-threatening complications like seizures, unlike patient C.

Question 5 of 5

The nurse is teaching the parent of a child newly diagnosed with a latex allergy. Which information by the parents indicates a need for further teaching?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Bananas and kiwis are foods that can cross-react with latex allergy, indicating that the parents need further teaching on managing latex allergies. Choices A, B, and D are correct as rubber-free toys, using foil balloons, and having an epinephrine auto-injector are appropriate measures to prevent and manage allergic reactions in a child with a latex allergy.

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