Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination Silvestri 5th Edition Test Bank


26. The adult client has had serum electrolyte levels drawn. The nurse receiving the results by telephone from the laboratory would be most concerned with which of the following results? 1. Sodium level, 142 mEq/L 2. Chloride level, 103 mEq/L 3. Potassium level, 5.4 mEq/L 4. Bicarbonate level, 24 mEq/L


ANS: 3


Rationale: The normal adult ranges of serum electrolyte levels are sodium, 136 to 145 mEq/L; potassium, 3.5 to 5.1 mEq/L; chloride, 98 to 106 mEq/L; and bicarbonate (venous), 22 to 30 mEq/L. The only abnormal value identified above is the serum potassium level, which would be the one of most concern to the nurse because of potential cardiac arrhythmias.


Test-Taking Strategy: To answer this question accurately, you must be familiar with normal serum electrolyte levels. Remember that the normal potassium level is 3.5 to 5.1 mEq/L. If this question was difficult, review these laboratory values.


PTS: 1 DIF: Level of Cognitive Ability: Understanding REF: Pagana, K., & Pagana, T. (2009). Mosby’s diagnostic and laboratory test reference (9th ed.). St. Louis: Mosby. OBJ: Client Needs: Physiological Integrity TOP: Content Area: Nursing Sciences MSC: Integrated Process: Nursing Process—Assessment


27. The client with heart disease is scheduled to receive a daily morning dose of furosemide (Lasix). The nurse would report which of the following serum potassium levels to the health care provider before administering the daily dose? 1. 5.1 mEq/L 2. 4.2 mEq/L 3. 3.8 mEq/L 4. 3.0 mEq/L


ANS: 4


Rationale: The normal serum potassium level in the adult is 3.5 to 5.1 mEq/L (“5.1 mEq/L,” “4.2 mEq/L,” and “3.8 mEq/L”). “3.0 mEq/L” indicates a low value. Administering furosemide to a client with a low potassium level and a history of cardiovascular disease could precipitate cardiac dysrhythmias in the client. The normal levels do not require withholding the dose or notifying the physician.


Test-Taking Strategy: Familiarity with the normal serum potassium level is needed to identify those values that are outside the normal range. Recalling that furosemide lowers


Saunders Comprehensive Review for the NCLEX-RN Examination Silvestri 5th Edition Test Bank


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