The LPN/LVN is assisting in caring for a client in the telemetry unit who is receiving an intravenous infusion of 1000 mL of 5% dextrose with 40 mEq of potassium chloride. Which occurrence observed on the cardiac monitor indicates the presence of hyperkalemia?
- A. Tall, peaked T waves
- B. ST segment depressions
- C. Shortened P-R intervals
- D. Shortening of the QRS complex
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: In hyperkalemia, tall, peaked T waves are a distinct ECG finding. These T waves can be seen as a result of increased serum potassium levels, affecting the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. It is crucial for healthcare providers to recognize this ECG change promptly as hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias and complications.
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The healthcare provider is monitoring a client with left-sided heart failure. Which assessment finding indicates that the client's condition is worsening?
- A. Clear lung sounds
- B. Increased peripheral pulses
- C. Bibasilar crackles
- D. Improved activity tolerance
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
A client with a diagnosis of angina pectoris returns to the nursing unit after experiencing an angioplasty. The nurse reinforces instructions to the client regarding the procedure and home care measures. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the instructions?
- A. I am considering cutting my workload.
- B. I need to cut down on cigarette smoking.
- C. I am so relieved that my heart is repaired.
- D. I need to adhere to my dietary restrictions.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
Prior to a dipyridamole thallium scan, what substance should the LPN/LVN ensure the client has not consumed?
- A. Caffeine
- B. Fatty meal
- C. Excess sugar
- D. Milk products
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Caffeine should be avoided before a dipyridamole thallium scan as it can interfere with the test results. Caffeine is a stimulant that can affect the heart rate and may lead to inaccurate findings during the scan. Therefore, it is essential for the LPN/LVN to check and ensure that the client has not consumed caffeine prior to the procedure to obtain accurate diagnostic results.
The healthcare provider is preparing to assist in the care of a client who has just returned from coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery. Which is the priority action?
- A. Monitor the client's urine output.
- B. Check the client's surgical dressing.
- C. Measure the client's blood pressure.
- D. Assess the client's level of consciousness.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Assessing the client's level of consciousness is the priority action post-CABG surgery to monitor for signs of cerebral hypoxia or other complications that require immediate intervention. Changes in the client's level of consciousness can indicate neurological deterioration, which is critical to address promptly in this postoperative period.
A client has a history of left-sided heart failure. The nurse should look for the presence of which finding to determine whether the problem is currently active?
- A. Presence of ascites
- B. Bilateral lung crackles
- C. Jugular vein distention
- D. Pedal edema bilaterally
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.