Fluid & Electrolytes

A client is admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) with metabolic alkalosis, hypokalemia, and hyponatremia. The nurse reviews results of which additional serum laboratory test that is likely to have an abnormal result?

• Ammonia

• Uric Acid

• Creatinine

• Chloride

When assessing a client with hypercalcemia, the nurse concludes that which finding in the neuromuscular examination is consistent with that electrolyte imbalance?

• A positive Trousseau's sign

• Tetany

• Muscle weakness

• Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes

The nurse assigned to a client with hyponatremia would conclude that which factor probably contributed to this electrolyte imbalance?

• Osmotic diuretic therapy

• Fluid retention

• Fever

• Excessive hypertonic intravenous infusion

The nurse evaluates the hydration status of a client who has been receiving intravenous (IV) fluids at 150 mL/hour. The nurse identifies the client has excess fluid volume after which findings?

Select all that apply.

• Neck veins are distended when the head of the bed is elevated 45 degrees.

• Pitting edema is present over tibia.

• Peripheral pulses are rapid and weak.

• Hand veins are empty when the hand is raised above the heart.

• Client becomes short of breath when ambulating.

The nurse anticipates that phosphorus levels might be abnormal in the client with which condition?

• Asthma

• Hepatobiliary disease

• Abdominal ascites

• Impaired renal function

A client is receiving an intravenous (IV) infusion of 0.0225% sodium chloride at 50 mL/hour. To detect complications of therapy, it is most important for the nurse to monitor which parameter? Hint: Hypotonic Fluid

• Mental status and orientation.

• Urine output and concentration.

• Tongue and mouth for dryness.

• Legs and arms for edema.

When reviewing lab results, the nurse notes a phosphorus level of 1.7 mg/dL? The nurse plans to assess the client for which manifestation?

• Bruising

• Elevated white blood cell count

• Deep even respirations

• Bounding pulses

Which intervention would be appropriate for the client with hypokalemia who has a nursing diagnosis of risk for injury related to skeletal muscle weakness?

• Monitor the client's ECG for conduction changes.

• Administer KCl 20 mEq by mouth daily as ordered.

• Administer KCl 20 mEq by mouth daily as ordered. Encourage a diet intake high in fiber and fruit.

• Assist the client with ambulation.

A client with cancer has a calcium level of 11.8 mg/dL. For which symptom should the nurse notify the health care provider?

• Bone pain

• Hyperactive bowel sounds

• Muscle spasms

• Peaked T waves on electrocardiogram

When a client is admitted with a chloride level of 80 mEq/L, the nurse anticipates administration of which of the following intravenous solutions?

• 5% dextrose and water

• 0.45% sodium chloride with 20 mEq of potassium

• 3% sodium chloride

• 0.9% sodium chloride