ATI RN
ATI Fluid Electrolyte and Acid-Base Regulation Questions
Question 1 of 5
After administering 40 mEq of potassium chloride, a nurse evaluates the clients response. Which manifestations indicate that treatment is improving the clients hypokalemia? (Select all tha do not t apply.)
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: U waves present on the electrocardiogram (ECG). U waves are indicative of hypokalemia, and their presence indicates that the potassium chloride treatment is improving the condition. Explanation: 1. A: Strong productive cough - This manifestation is not related to potassium levels and does not indicate improvement in hypokalemia. 2. B: Active bowel sounds - While hypokalemia can cause gastrointestinal issues, active bowel sounds alone do not specifically indicate improvement in potassium levels. 3. C: U waves present on ECG - U waves are a classic ECG finding in hypokalemia. The presence of U waves indicates a positive response to potassium chloride treatment. 4. D: No response provided - Not applicable. In summary, the presence of U waves on the ECG is a key indicator of improvement in hypokalemia, while the other manifestations do not directly relate to potassium levels.
Question 2 of 5
. A nurse assesses a client with diabetes mellitus who is admitted with an acid-base imbalance. The clients arterial blood gas values are pH 7.36, PaO2 98 mm Hg, PaCO2 33 mm Hg, and HCO3 18 mEq/L. Which manifestation should the nurse identify as an exam
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Increased rate and depth of respirations. In this case, the client's arterial blood gas values show a pH within normal range (7.36), PaCO2 below normal (33 mm Hg), and HCO3 below normal (18 mEq/L), indicating a metabolic acidosis. To compensate for the acidosis, the client will hyperventilate, leading to increased rate and depth of respirations to blow off excess CO2 and attempt to normalize the pH. Options B, C, and D are incorrect because increased urinary output, thirst, hunger, and release of acids from the kidneys are not direct compensatory mechanisms for metabolic acidosis.
Question 3 of 5
A nurse assesses a client who is experiencing an acid-base imbalance. The clients arterial blood gas values are pH 7.34, PaO2 88 mm Hg, PaCO2 38 mm Hg, and HCO3 19 mEq/L. Which assessment should the nurse perform first?
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Cardiac rate and rhythm. In an acid-base imbalance, the pH is below the normal range indicating acidosis. The nurse should assess the cardiac rate and rhythm first because acidosis can have negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Acidosis can lead to arrhythmias and decreased cardiac output. Monitoring the cardiac rate and rhythm is crucial to detect any cardiac complications early. Choices B, C, and D are not the priority in this situation as they are not directly impacted by acid-base imbalances.
Question 4 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 5 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who is experiencing moderate metabolic alkalosis. Which action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Teach the client fall prevention measures. In metabolic alkalosis, the client may experience muscle weakness and confusion, increasing the risk of falls. Teaching fall prevention measures is essential to ensure the client's safety. Monitoring hemoglobin and hematocrit values (A) is not directly related to managing metabolic alkalosis. Administering furosemide (B) is not appropriate for metabolic alkalosis. Encouraging deep breaths (C) may not address the underlying cause of the alkalosis.