Critical Care Nursing Cardiac Questions Related

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The patient is admitted to the unit with the diagnosis of rhabdomyolysis. The patient is started on intravenous (IV) fluids and IV mannitol. What action by the nurse is best?

  • A. Assess the patient’s hearing.
  • B. Assess the patient’s lungs.
  • C. Decrease IV fluids once the diuretic has been administered.
  • D. Give extra doses before giving radiological contrast agents.
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: Assess the patient’s lungs. Rhabdomyolysis can lead to acute kidney injury due to myoglobin release from damaged muscle cells. IV fluids and mannitol are given to prevent kidney damage by promoting myoglobin excretion. Assessing the patient’s lungs is crucial to monitor for potential complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) which can occur as a result of rhabdomyolysis. This assessment helps to ensure early detection and prompt intervention if respiratory issues arise.

Summary of Incorrect Choices:
A: Assess the patient’s hearing - This is not directly related to rhabdomyolysis or its treatment.
C: Decrease IV fluids once the diuretic has been administered - Decreasing IV fluids can exacerbate kidney injury in rhabdomyolysis.
D: Give extra doses before giving radiological contrast agents - Mannitol is not routinely given before radiological contrast agents in the context of rhabdomyolysis management.