ATI RN
Nutrition and Fluid Balance Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient with renal failure who arrives for outpatient hemodialysis is unresponsive to questions and has decreased deep tendon reflexes. Family members report that the patient has been taking aluminum hydroxide/magnesium hydroxide suspension (Maalox) at home for indigestion. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Notify the patient's health care provider. The patient's unresponsiveness and decreased deep tendon reflexes could be indicative of hypermagnesemia from excessive intake of magnesium-containing antacids like Maalox. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately to address the potential overdose and adjust the patient's treatment plan. Drawing a potassium level (choice B) is not the priority in this situation. Reviewing the last magnesium level on the chart (choice C) may provide some information but does not address the immediate need for intervention. Teaching the patient about magnesium-containing antacids (choice D) can be done later, but the priority is to ensure the patient's safety and well-being by involving the healthcare provider promptly.
Question 2 of 5
The nurse is assessing a patient with a new arteriovenous fistula, but does not hear a bruit or
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: notify the provider immediately. A bruit is a normal sound heard over an arteriovenous fistula, indicating proper blood flow. The absence of a bruit may suggest a clot or blockage, which can lead to serious complications. Notifying the provider promptly allows for timely intervention to prevent further issues. Choices A and B are incorrect as they do not address the potential seriousness of the situation. Choice C is incorrect as raising the arm may temporarily change blood flow but does not address the underlying cause of the absent bruit.
Question 3 of 5
The nurse is caring for a patient receiving peritoneal dialysis. The patient suddenly
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D because sudden changes in a patient's condition during peritoneal dialysis could indicate neurological issues like infection or intracranial bleeding. Evaluating the patient's neurological status will help identify any potential complications that require immediate intervention. Assessing peritoneal dialysate return (B) is important but not the priority in this situation. Checking blood sugar (C) is relevant for diabetic patients but not specifically indicated here. Choice A does not provide any specific action and lacks relevance to the situation.
Question 4 of 5
The patient is in the critical care unit and will receive dialysis this morning. The nurse will (Select all that apply.)
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: 1. Evaluating morning lab results is essential before dialysis to ensure patient safety. 2. Abnormal lab values can impact dialysis treatment and require immediate intervention. 3. Reporting abnormal results promptly allows for timely adjustments in the dialysis plan. 4. Administering antihypertensive meds, assessing dialysis access, and weighing the patient are not directly related to preparing for dialysis. 5. Administering antihypertensive meds without lab evaluation can be risky due to potential electrolyte imbalances.
Question 5 of 5
What is the importance of regulating ECF osmolarity?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Step-by-step rationale: 1. ECF osmolarity regulation prevents fluid shifts between cells and extracellular fluid. 2. Maintaining osmotic balance is crucial for cellular function and preventing cell damage. 3. Imbalances can lead to dehydration or edema. 4. Other choices are incorrect because: A. Blood pressure regulation involves various mechanisms beyond osmolarity. B. Urine concentration is regulated by the kidneys, not ECF osmolarity. C. Na+ balance primarily affects cell excitability, not ECF osmolarity.