Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 9th Edition Test Bank Related

Review Pharmacology and the Nursing Process 9th Edition Test Bank related questions and content

An adult who has gastroenteritis and is on digitalis ha lab values of: K 3.2 mEq/L, Na 136 mEq/L, Ca 8.8 mg/dl, and Cl 98 mEq/L. the nurse puts which of the following on the client’s plan of care?

  • A. Stop digitalis therapy
  • B. Observe for trousseau’s and chovestek’s
  • C. Avoid foods rich in potassium signs
  • D. Observe for digitalis toxicity
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Step-by-step rationale for why choice C is correct:
1. The lab value of K at 3.2 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia.
2. Digitalis can worsen hypokalemia and lead to toxicity.
3. Avoiding foods rich in potassium will prevent further lowering of potassium levels.
4. This intervention helps prevent potential digitalis toxicity in the client.

Summary of why the other choices are incorrect:
A. Stopping digitalis therapy abruptly can lead to rebound effects and worsen the condition.
B. Trousseau's and Chvostek's signs are not relevant to the client's current lab values.
D. While observing for digitalis toxicity is important, addressing the low potassium level is a more immediate concern in this scenario.