HESI Fundamentals Study Guide Related

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A client has been admitted to the hospital with severe diarrhea. The nurse should monitor the client for which complication?

  • A. Metabolic acidosis
  • B. Metabolic alkalosis
  • C. Hyperkalemia
  • D. Hypercalcemia
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Severe diarrhea can lead to metabolic acidosis due to the loss of bicarbonate. When there is excessive loss of bicarbonate through diarrhea, the pH of the blood decreases, leading to metabolic acidosis. Metabolic alkalosis (Choice B) is not typically associated with severe diarrhea as it involves elevated pH and bicarbonate levels. Hyperkalemia (Choice C) is less likely with severe diarrhea as potassium is often lost along with fluids. Hypercalcemia (Choice D) is not a common complication of severe diarrhea; instead, hypocalcemia may occur due to malabsorption of calcium.