You review her admission laboratory studies. an electrocardiogram (eCG) has also been ordered
Admission Lab Work
Sodium 135?mEq/L
Potassium 3.4?mEq/L
Chloride 99?mEq/L
Magnesium 1.5?mEq/L
Blood?urea?nitrogen 18?mg/dL
Creatinine 1.0?mg/dL
Hemoglobin 11?g/dL
Hematocrit 35%
Which laboratory results might be of concern at this time? Explain your answers.
What clinical symptoms of anorexia nervosa, if present, should have the highest priority?
Explain your answers.
None of her laboratory values is dangerously low. However, the low Hgb and Hct may reflect a
deficiency in protein and iron. The potassium level is slightly lower than normal and should be
watched carefully.
• Malnutrition has long-term implications for disease and poor health.
• ECG changes could be life-threatening.
• Electrolyte imbalances need to be corrected, especially decreased K, Na, Cl, and Mg.
• Fluid balance needs to be corrected, and the patient might need to be treated for kidney damage
or failure.
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a. Constipation b. Depression c. Dizziness d. Pain relief
When turning the patient who is in Crutchfield tongs traction, the nurse will:
a. turn the patient as a unit by log rolling. b. release the weights to prevent injury while turning. c. turn quickly to avoid muscle spasms. d. advise the patient to hold his breath and bear down during turning.
To reassure and educate patients concerning changes in the breasts, nurses should be aware that:
1. the visibility of blood vessels forming an intertwining blue network indicates full function and possible infection of Montgomery's tubercles. 2. development of the mammary glands doesn't occur until 2 weeks before labor. 3. lactation is inhibited until a decrease in estrogen level occurs after birth. 4. colostrum is the yellowish oily substance used to lubricate the nipples for breast-feeding.
Which of the following statements regarding gout is INCORRECT?
A. It is a disturbance of purine metabolism. B. It is associated with an autoantibody directed against antigens in joint cartilage. C. Uric acid may precipitate in tissues, forming gouty tophi. D. The frequency of attacks can be reduced by drugs that lower blood uric acid.