Maintaining the infusion rate of hyperalimentation solutions is a nursing responsibility. What side effects would you anticipate from too rapid infusion rate?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Too rapid infusion of hyperalimentation solutions can lead to circulatory overload due to the rapid volume expansion, which can strain the heart and lead to fluid overload. This can manifest as symptoms such as shortness of breath, crackles in the lungs, and edema. Additionally, a rapid infusion rate can cause a sudden surge in glucose levels, potentially leading to hypoglycemia due to increased insulin release in response to the elevated glucose levels. It is important for the nurse to maintain a careful and appropriate infusion rate to prevent these complications and ensure patient safety.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A potassium level of 6.3 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which can have significant effects on the heart. The heart is one of the most sensitive organs to changes in potassium levels. In hyperkalemia, elevated serum potassium levels can lead to various cardiac manifestations, including dysrhythmias, conduction abnormalities, and eventually cardiac arrest. Monitoring and managing potassium levels are crucial in preventing life-threatening cardiac complications in patients with hyperkalemia. While the kidneys and other organs can also be affected by high potassium levels, the heart is the most critical organ to consider in this scenario.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When evaluating the effectiveness of nursing interventions for sinusitis discomfort, assessing the amount and color of sinus drainage is crucial. Changes in these aspects can provide valuable information about the progression of the sinusitis and the effectiveness of the interventions being implemented. Increased or purulent sinus drainage can indicate infection or inflammation, while clearer drainage may suggest improvement. Monitoring these parameters helps the nurse make informed decisions about continuing, modifying, or discontinuing interventions to manage the patient's sinusitis discomfort effectively. Evaluating WBC count, capillary refill, and comfort level are also important assessments in certain situations, but assessing the amount and color of sinus drainage is most directly related to sinusitis symptoms.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Corticosteroids, such as methylprednisolone, are commonly used in the treatment of lung diseases like emphysema to reduce airway inflammation. In conditions like emphysema, inflammation in the airways can lead to symptoms such as shortness of breath and cough. Corticosteroids work by decreasing the inflammation in the airways, thereby helping to improve symptoms and slow down disease progression. By reducing inflammation, corticosteroids can also help to decrease mucus production and airway constriction, leading to improved lung function and overall respiratory health.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Paroxysms, or sudden attacks, of shortness of breath are a common sign or symptom of asthma. Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition characterized by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, which leads to difficulty breathing. During an asthma attack, individuals may experience sudden and severe shortness of breath, often accompanied by wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness. These paroxysms of breathlessness are a hallmark feature of asthma and indicate the presence of airway inflammation and constriction.