The nurse is preparing to give a potassium supplement. Which laboratory test should be checked before the patient receives a dose of potassium?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Before administering potassium supplements to a patient, it is essential to check the patient's serum potassium level. This allows the healthcare provider to assess the current potassium level in the body and determine if supplementation is necessary. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial because both low potassium (hypokalemia) and high potassium (hyperkalemia) levels can have serious health implications. Administering potassium supplements without checking the serum potassium level could lead to adverse effects or complications, so it is important to confirm the need for supplementation based on this laboratory test.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for Heparin. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication that works by inhibiting the clotting factors in the blood. In cases of Heparin overdose or when there is a need to reverse its anticoagulant effects quickly, protamine sulfate can be administered. Protamine sulfate binds to Heparin and neutralizes its anticoagulant effects, making it an effective antidote. It is important to administer the antidote under the guidance of a healthcare professional to prevent any adverse reactions.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Heparin is a commonly used anticoagulant medication. It works by inhibiting the formation of blood clots in the body. Anticoagulants like heparin are frequently used to prevent and treat conditions such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), pulmonary embolism, and during certain medical procedures to reduce the risk of clot formation. Heparin is not used to treat hypertension, diabetes, or as a laxative.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Valproate, commonly known as sodium valproate or valproic acid, is a medication primarily used to treat seizures, including epilepsy. It is an antiepileptic drug that works by increasing the levels of a neurotransmitter called gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) in the brain, which helps to calm excessive electrical activity that can lead to seizures. Valproate is considered a first-line treatment for various types of seizures, especially absence seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures. It is not used for replacing hormones, maintaining blood glucose levels, or lowering blood pressure.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is commonly used as an antidote for heparin overdose. Heparin is an anticoagulant medication given to prevent blood clots, but in cases of excessive bleeding or overdose, protamine sulfate can be administered to counteract its effects. Therefore, it is important to be aware that protamine sulfate can negate the therapeutic effect of heparin.