An older patient receiving iso-osmolar continuous tube feedings develops restlessness, agitation, and weakness. Which laboratory result should the nurse report to the health care provider immediately?
a. K+ 3.4 mEq/L (3.4 mmol/L)
b. Ca+2 7.8 mg/dL (1.95 mmol/L)
c. Na+ 154 mEq/L (154 mmol/L)
d. PO4-3 4.8 mg/dL (1.55 mmol/L)
ANS: C
The elevated serum sodium level is consistent with the patient's neurologic symptoms and indicates a need for immediate action to prevent further serious complications such as seizures. The potassium and calcium levels vary slightly from normal but do not require immediate action by the nurse. The phosphate level is normal.
You might also like to view...
A client has been diagnosed with mitral valve stenosis following his recovery from rheumatic fever. Which of the following teaching points would be most accurate to convey to the client?
A) "The normal tissue that makes up the valve between the right sides of your heart has stiffened." B) "Your mitral valve isn't opening up enough for blood to flow into the part of your heart that sends blood into circulation." C) "Your heart's mitral valve isn't closing properly so blood is flowing backward in your heart and eventually into your lungs." D) "The valve between your left ventricle and left atria is infected and isn't allowing enough blood through."
A 72-year-old male patient with dehydration caused by an exacerbation of ulcerative colitis is receiving 5% dextrose in normal saline at 125 mL/hour. Which assessment finding by the nurse is most important to report to the health care provider?
a. Patient has not voided for the last 4 hours. b. Skin is dry with poor turgor on all extremities. c. Crackles are heard halfway up the posterior chest. d. Patient has had 5 loose stools over the last 6 hours.
FI The process of ________ compares processes and outcomes among competing organizations to identify performance levels that a particular agency wants to exceed
A. Assessing B. Delegation C. Diagnosing D. Benchmarking E. Screening
The primary function of the dermis is to
1. provide foundation for hair and nails. 2. insulate the body. 3. provide a source of energy. 4. form a protective barrier to foreign matter.