Which patient should the nurse assess for both hyperkalemia and ...

[shofmannx20]

Which patient should the nurse assess for both hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis? A patient diagnosed with:
 
  a. diabetes insipidus.
  b. pulmonary disorders.
  c. Cushing syndrome.
  d. renal failure.

Question 2

A 42-year-old female presents to her primary care provider reporting muscle weakness and car-diac abnormalities. Laboratory tests indicate that she is hypokalemic. Which of the following could be the cause of her condition?
 
  a. Respiratory acidosis
  b. Constipation
  c. Hypoglycemia
  d. Laxative abuse

[Chou]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Renal failure is associated with hyperkalemia and metabolic acidosis. Diabetes insipidus results in hypernatremia. Pulmonary disorders are a cause of respiratory acidosis or alkalosis but do not af-fect hyperkalemia. Cushing syndrome results in hypernatremia.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: D
Losses of potassium from body stores are usually caused by gastrointestinal and renal disorders. Diarrhea, intestinal drainage tubes or fistulae, and laxative abuse also result in hypokalemia. Ac-idosis is related to hyperkalemia, not hypokalemia. Constipation can occur with hypokalemia but does not cause it. Hypoglycemia is not related to muscle weakness.