ATI RN
ATI Capstone Exam 2 Final Questions
Extract:
Question 1 of 5
A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for potassium chloride (KCL) 20 mEq PO daily. The nurse reviews the client’s most recent laboratory results and finds the client’s potassium level is 5.2 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: Call the prescribing physician and inform her of the client’s serum potassium level results. This action is necessary because the client's potassium level is high (5.2 mEq/L), indicating hyperkalemia. The nurse must communicate this critical information to the physician promptly to prevent potential adverse effects of administering additional potassium. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and even cardiac arrest. By informing the physician, the nurse ensures that appropriate adjustments can be made to the client's treatment plan.
Choice A (Call the lab to verify the client’s results) is incorrect because the nurse should act on the abnormal result rather than seeking verification.
Choice B (Omit the KCL dose and document it as not given) is incorrect as it does not address the need for immediate action.
Choice C (Give the ordered KCL as prescribed) is incorrect because administering KCL would worsen the hyperkalemia. The best course
Question 2 of 5
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Question 3 of 5
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Question 4 of 5
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Question 5 of 5
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