Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The symptoms of hypokalemia include GI, cardiac, renal, respiratory, and neurologic disturbances. The use of potassium-wasting diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide, without potassium replacement therapy is a primary cause of hypokalemia.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: When selecting a site for insertion of an IV catheter, the nurse should choose a distal site, not a proximal site. Selection of a distal site leaves the upper veins available for subsequent cannulations. Instruct the patient to hold his arm in a dependent position to increase blood flow. Never leave a tourniquet in place longer than 2 minutes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Furosemide is a potassium-wasting diuretic. A low potassium level may cause weakness and palpitations. Telling the patient to rest more often won't help the patient if she's hypokalemic. Digoxin isn't causing the patient's symptoms, so she doesn't need to stop taking it. The patient should probably avoid caffeine, but this wouldn't resolve potassium depletion.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: When PaCO2 chronically exceeds 50 mm Hg, it creates insensitivity to CO2 in the respiratory medulla, and the use of oxygen may result in the patient developing carbon dioxide narcosis and hypoxemia.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Renin is released by the juxtaglomerular cells of the kidneys in response to decreased renal perfusion. Angiotensin-converting enzyme converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II. Angiotensin II, with its vasoconstrictor properties, increases arterial perfusion pressure and stimulates thirst. As the sympathetic nervous system is stimulated, aldosterone is released in response to an increased release of renin, which decreases urine production. Based on the nursing assessment and mechanism of injury, this is the most likely cause of the lower urine output.