RN Physiological Adaptation

Question 1

A patient presents with Kussmaul respirations, fruity breath odor, and blood glucose of 520 mg/dL. Which condition does the nurse suspect?

Accepted Answer

Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)

Answer

DKA presents with Kussmaul respirations (deep, rapid breathing to compensate for metabolic acidosis), fruity breath from ketones, and markedly elevated blood glucose.

Question 2

Which electrolyte imbalance is most commonly associated with prolonged vomiting?

Accepted Answer

Hypokalemia

Answer

Prolonged vomiting causes loss of hydrochloric acid and potassium, leading to hypokalemia and metabolic alkalosis.

Question 3

A patient with chronic kidney disease has a serum potassium of 6.8 mEq/L. The nurse's priority intervention is to:

Accepted Answer

Prepare for cardiac monitoring

Answer

Hyperkalemia at 6.8 mEq/L poses a life-threatening cardiac risk; continuous cardiac monitoring must be initiated immediately.

Question 4

A patient post-thyroidectomy develops tingling around the mouth and muscle cramps. The nurse should check which lab value first?

Accepted Answer

Serum calcium

Answer

Parathyroid glands may be inadvertently removed during thyroidectomy, causing hypocalcemia with characteristic perioral tingling and muscle cramps (Chvostek's and Trousseau's signs).

Question 5

Which assessment finding indicates successful treatment of fluid volume deficit in a dehydrated patient?

Accepted Answer

Blood pressure of 110/70 mmHg with moist mucous membranes

Answer

Adequate blood pressure with moist mucous membranes indicates restored fluid volume, whereas low urine output, tachycardia, and high specific gravity suggest ongoing deficit.

RN - Registered Nurse Practice Test

RN - Registered Nurse Practice Test

RN Physiological Adaptation