Author Question: The nurse would expect to assess which serum potassium level in a patient who has severe vomiting ... (Read 45 times)

Jkov05 · **on:** Jul 24, 2018

The nurse would expect to assess which serum potassium level in a patient who has severe vomiting and diarrhea?

a. Less than 3.5 mEq/L
b. Between 3.5 and 4.5 mEq/L
c. Between 4.6 and 5 mEq/L
d. Higher than 5.5 mEq/L

Question 2

Which condition warrants the use of acetazolamide (Diamox) as a diuretic?

a. Increased intracranial pressure
b. Increased extravascular fluid pressure
c. Increased intraocular pressure
d. Periorbital edema

anoriega3 · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 24, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A
Serum potassium (K+) levels would be less than 3.5 mEq/L. Hypokalemia is especially likely to occur when a patient exhibits vomiting, diarrhea, or heavy diuresis. Between 3.5 and 4.5 mEq/L is the low end of normal range for serum potassium. Between 4.6 and 5 mEq/L is the high end of normal range for serum potassium. Serum K+ levels higher than 5.5 mEq/L indicate hyperkalemia, which occurs most commonly when a patient is given excessive amounts of potassium supplementation.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C
Acetazolamide is used to reduce intraocular pressure associated with glaucoma. Mannitol is an osmotic diuretic used to decrease intracranial pressure. Diuretics such as furosemide or ethacrynic acid are used to reduce fluid volume in extravascular spaces. Diuretics are not used to treat periorbital edema.