The nurse is caring for a patient with hyperkalemia. Which body ...

[rl]

The nurse is caring for a patient with hyperkalemia. Which body system assessment is the priority?
 
  a. Gastrointestinal
  b. Neurological
  c. Respiratory
  d. Cardiac

Question 2

Which assessments will alert the nurse that a patient's IV has infiltrated? (Select all that apply.)
 
  a. Edema of the extremity near the insertion site
  b. Reddish streak proximal to the insertion site
  c. Skin discolored or pale in appearance
  d. Pain and warmth at the insertion site
  e. Palpable venous cord
  f. Skin cool to the touch

[briseldagonzales]

Answer to Question 1

ANS: D
Cardiac is the priority. Hyperkalemia places the patient at risk for potentially serious dysrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Potassium balance is necessary for cardiac function. Respiratory is the priority with hypokalemia. Monitoring of gastrointestinal and neurological systems would be indicated for other electrolyte imbalances.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: A, C, F
Infiltration results in skin that is edematous near the IV insertion site. Skin is cool to the touch and may be pale or discolored. Pain, warmth, erythema, a reddish streak, and a palpable venous cord are all symptoms of phlebitis.

[rl]

TYSM

[juliaf]

Gracias!