ATI RN
Nutrition and Fluid Balance Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient presents with confusion, headache, and a serum sodium level of 130 mEq/L. Which nursing intervention is most appropriate?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Administer hypertonic IV fluids. In hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), hypertonic IV fluids help raise sodium levels gradually to prevent rapid correction and avoid complications like cerebral edema. Administering hypotonic IV fluids (choice A) can worsen the condition by further diluting sodium levels. Restricting fluid intake (choice C) may not address the underlying electrolyte imbalance. Administering potassium supplements (choice D) is not appropriate for hyponatremia.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse uses a picture to show how ions equalize their concentration by which passive transport process?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Diffusion. Diffusion is the passive transport process where ions move from an area of higher concentration to an area of lower concentration until equilibrium is reached. This aligns with the scenario described in the question where ions equalize their concentration. Osmosis (A) specifically refers to the movement of water molecules across a selectively permeable membrane. Filtration (B) involves the movement of solutes through a membrane due to pressure differences. Titration (C) is a laboratory technique used to determine the concentration of a substance in a solution and is not related to passive transport processes like diffusion.
Question 3 of 5
Which finding is most important for the nurse to confirm prior to hanging an intravenous (IV) bag containing potassium?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Check for urine output of at least 30 mL/h. Prior to hanging an IV bag containing potassium, it is crucial to ensure an adequate urine output to prevent the risk of hyperkalemia. Potassium is excreted primarily through urine, so monitoring urine output helps assess kidney function and the ability to eliminate potassium efficiently. Low urine output could indicate potential kidney issues, increasing the risk of potassium buildup in the body. Incorrect choices: A: Verify a blood pressure of at least 60 mm Hg diastolic - While blood pressure is important for assessing perfusion, it is not directly related to potassium administration. C: Ensure filter placement on the IV line - While filter placement is important for preventing particulate matter from entering the bloodstream, it is not directly related to potassium administration. D: Verify a pulse of at least 50 beats per minute - Although pulse rate is essential for assessing cardiac function, it is not specifically related to potassium administration.
Question 4 of 5
The patient who has had diarrhea for the last 3 days has blood gases of pH of 7.1, HCO3- of 20 mEq/L, and PCO2 of 36 mm Hg. These laboratory values are consistent with which acid-base imbalance?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The given pH of 7.1 indicates acidemia. The low HCO3- of 20 mEq/L points to metabolic acidosis. The PCO2 of 36 mm Hg is normal, ruling out respiratory acidosis or alkalosis. In metabolic acidosis, the kidneys cannot excrete enough acid or retain enough bicarbonate. This leads to a decrease in serum HCO3- levels causing an acidotic state. Choices A, B, and C do not align with the provided blood gas values, making them incorrect.
Question 5 of 5
After selecting an appropriate fluid, which action should the nurse take to correctly flush a PRN lock?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because using slow, gentle pressure to clear the lumen is essential to prevent damaging the lock or causing discomfort to the patient. Forceful flushing (A) can damage the lumen, while flushing hard enough to clear resistance (C) may cause discomfort and potential harm. Aspirating for blood return prior to flushing (D) is not necessary for a PRN lock flush as it is typically done before administering medications. In summary, choice B is correct as it ensures safe and effective flushing without causing harm or discomfort.