Author Question: A nurse develops a plan of care for a client who has a history of hypocalcemia. What interventions ... (Read 74 times)

dejastew · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A nurse develops a plan of care for a client who has a history of hypocalcemia. What interventions should the nurse include in this client's care plan? (Select all that apply.)

a. Encourage oral fluid intake of at least 2 L/day.
b. Use a draw sheet to reposition the client in bed.
c. Strain all urine output and assess for urinary stones.
d. Provide nonslip footwear for the client to use when out of bed.
e. Rotate the client from side to side every 2 hours.

Question 2

After administering 40 mEq of potassium chloride, a nurse evaluates the client's response. Which manifestations indicate that treatment is improving the client's hypokalemia? (Select all that apply.)

a. Respiratory rate of 8 breaths/min
b. Absent deep tendon reflexes
c. Strong productive cough
d. Active bowel sounds
e. U waves present on the electrocardiogram (ECG)

adf223 · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: B, D
Clients with long-standing hypocalcemia have brittle bones that may fracture easily. Safety needs are a priority. Nursing staff should use a draw sheet when repositioning the client in bed and have the client wear nonslip footwear when out of bed to prevent fractures and falls. The other interventions would not provide safety for this client.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: C, D
A strong, productive cough indicates an increase in muscle strength and improved potassium imbalance. Active bowel sounds also indicate treatment is working. A respiratory rate of 8 breaths/min, absent deep tendon reflexes, and U waves present on the ECG are all manifestations of hypokalemia and do not demonstrate that treatment is working.