Author Question: The nurse is reviewing the health care record of an infant suspected of having unilateral hip ... (Read 199 times)

acc299 · **on:** Jul 22, 2018

The nurse is reviewing the health care record of an infant suspected of having unilateral hip dysplasia. Which of the following assessment findings would the nurse expect to note docu-mented in the infant's record regarding this condition?

1. Full range of motion in the affected hip
2. An apparent short femur on the unaffected side
3. Asymmetrical adduction of the affected hip when placed supine, with the knees and hips flexed
4. Asymmetry of the gluteal skin folds when the infant is placed prone and the legs are extended against the examining table

Question 2

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

paavo · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 22, 2018

Answer to Question 1

4

Rationale: Asymmetry of the gluteal skin folds when the infant is placed prone and the legs are extended against the examining table is noted in hip dysplasia. Asymmetrical abduction of the affected hip, when an infant is placed supine with the knees and hips flexed, would also be an assessment finding in hip dysplasia in infants beyond the newborn period. An apparent short fe-mur on the affected side is noted, as well as limited range of motion.

Answer to Question 2

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.