MSNCB Fluid & Electrolyte Balance 2

Question 1

A patient's ABG shows pH 7.28, PaCO2 38 mmHg, HCO3 16 mEq/L. Which acid-base disturbance does this indicate?

Accepted Answer

Metabolic acidosis

Answer

Respiratory acidosis

Answer

Metabolic alkalosis

Answer

Respiratory alkalosis

Question 2

Which clinical finding is most associated with hypocalcemia?

Accepted Answer

Trousseau's sign

Answer

Constipation

Answer

Bradycardia

Answer

Polyuria

Question 3

A patient receiving prolonged total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is at risk for which electrolyte imbalance that can cause respiratory muscle weakness?

Accepted Answer

Hypophosphatemia

Answer

Hypermagnesemia

Answer

Hyperkalemia

Answer

Hypernatremia

Question 4

Which symptom is characteristic of hypermagnesemia?

Accepted Answer

Loss of deep tendon reflexes

Answer

Muscle cramps and tetany

Answer

Hypertension and tachycardia

Answer

Positive Chvostek's sign

Question 5

A patient has a serum potassium of 6.2 mEq/L. Which ECG change would the nurse most likely observe?

Accepted Answer

Peaked (tall, narrow) T waves

Answer

Flattened T waves

Answer

Prominent U waves

Answer

Shortened QT interval only

Question 6

Which set of findings is most consistent with SIADH (Syndrome of Inappropriate Antidiuretic Hormone)?

Accepted Answer

Hyponatremia with concentrated urine

Answer

Hypernatremia with polyuria

Answer

Hypernatremia with decreased urine output

Answer

Hyponatremia with dilute urine

Question 7

A nurse is preparing to administer potassium chloride IV to a patient with hypokalemia. Which action is essential for patient safety?

Accepted Answer

Dilute and infuse at no more than 10–20 mEq/hour via infusion pump

Answer

Administer as an IV bolus for rapid correction

Answer

Mix only with D5W to prevent vascular irritation

Answer

Administer undiluted through a central line