After 5 days of diuretic therapy with 20mg of furosemide (Lasix) daily, a patient begins to exhibit fatigue, muscle cramping, and muscle weakness. These symptoms probably indicate that the patient is experiencing:
- A. Hypokalemia
- B. Hyperkalemia
- C. Anorexia
- D. Dysphagia
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The symptoms of fatigue, muscle cramping, and muscle weakness in a patient after starting furosemide therapy are indicative of hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium depletion, causing hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can manifest with muscle weakness, cramps, and fatigue due to alterations in neuromuscular function and decreased ATP production.
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Which of the following is a sign or symptom of a hemolytic reaction to a blood transfusion?
- A. Hemoglobinuria
- B. Chest pain
- C. Urticaria
- D. Distended neck veins
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Hemoglobinuria is a characteristic sign of a hemolytic reaction to a blood transfusion. Hemolytic reactions can lead to the destruction of red blood cells, causing the release of hemoglobin into the urine, which presents as hemoglobinuria. Chest pain, urticaria, and distended neck veins are not specific signs of a hemolytic reaction and may be associated with other conditions or reactions.
Which of the following interventions promotes patient safety?
- A. Assess the patient's ability to ambulate and transfer from a bed to a chair
- B. Demonstrate the signal system to the patient
- C. Check to see that the patient is wearing their identification band
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: All the listed interventions are essential for promoting patient safety. Assessing the patient's ability to ambulate and transfer helps prevent falls, demonstrating the signal system ensures effective communication in emergencies, and checking the patient's identification band aids in accurate identification and treatment. By combining these interventions, healthcare providers can enhance patient safety and quality of care.
Which of the following white blood cell (WBC) counts clearly indicates leukocytosis?
- A. 4,500/mm³
- B. 7,000/mm³
- C. 10,000/mm³
- D. 25,000/mm³
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
Palpating the midclavicular line is the correct technique for assessing
- A. Baseline vital signs
- B. Systolic blood pressure
- C. Respiratory rate
- D. Apical pulse
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Palpating the midclavicular line is the correct technique for assessing the apical pulse. The apical pulse is located at the point of maximal impulse (PMI), which is typically at the fifth intercostal space at the midclavicular line. This technique allows healthcare providers to accurately assess the heart rate and rhythm by listening to the heart sounds directly at this point.
Which of the following interventions is considered the most effective form of universal precautions?
- A. Cap all used needles before removing them from their syringes
- B. Discard all used uncapped needles and syringes in an impenetrable protective container
- C. Wear gloves when administering IM injections
- D. Follow enteric precautions
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The most effective form of universal precautions is to discard all used uncapped needles and syringes in an impenetrable protective container. This practice minimizes the risk of needle-stick injuries, which are a significant concern when dealing with used needles. By safely disposing of uncapped needles, healthcare providers can protect themselves and others from potential exposure to bloodborne pathogens.