An ECG technician is performing an ECG on a hospital patient who has developed hypokalemia secondary to diuretic use. Which of the following manifestations of the client's health problem will the technician anticipate on the ECG?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: A prominent U wave and a flattened T wave. Hypokalemia results in low potassium levels, affecting the heart's electrical activity. Prominent U waves and flattened T waves are typical ECG findings in hypokalemia due to delayed repolarization. A: Irregular heart rate and a peaked T wave are not typical manifestations of hypokalemia on an ECG. B: A low T wave and an absent P wave are not characteristic ECG findings in hypokalemia. D: A narrow QRS complex and an absent U wave are not typical ECG findings in hypokalemia.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Provide hypertonic saline slowly. In this scenario, the patient has hyponatremia (low serum sodium level), which can lead to neurological symptoms like confusion and muscle cramps. The treatment goal is to increase sodium levels gradually to avoid complications such as osmotic demyelination syndrome. Hypertonic saline is the appropriate choice as it will raise sodium levels effectively without causing rapid shifts that can be harmful. Isotonic saline (choice A) may not provide enough sodium correction, fluid restriction (choice B) may worsen symptoms, and encouraging high-sodium foods (choice D) may not be sufficient or controlled.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Fasting for two weeks will slow the metabolic rate as the body conserves energy, making weight loss harder and potentially causing health issues.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: BMI = weight (kg) / height (m²). 180 lb = 81.65 kg, 5'11" = 1.803 m. 81.65 / (1.803²) ≈ 25.1.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: 2,000 mL/day is within the normal adult fluid intake range (1,500-2,500 mL), so no change is needed.