PCU Neurological & Renal Care Flashcards

A PCU patient with chronic kidney disease has a potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L. Which ECG change is the nurse most likely to observe?

Answer: Peaked T waves

Hyperkalemia classically produces peaked (tall, narrow, tent-shaped) T waves on the ECG, which can progress to widened QRS and sine wave pattern.

Which intervention is the nurse's FIRST priority when a PCU patient develops status epilepticus?

Answer: Protect the airway and ensure patient safety

Airway protection and patient safety are the first priorities during seizure activity, followed by medication administration and IV access.

A PCU patient with a history of alcohol use disorder is admitted for pneumonia. On day 2, the nurse notes tremors, diaphoresis, and agitation. What complication is developing?

Answer: Alcohol withdrawal syndrome

Tremors, diaphoresis, and agitation appearing 24–72 hours after the last drink are classic signs of alcohol withdrawal syndrome (AWS).

Which assessment finding indicates increased intracranial pressure (ICP) in a PCU patient?

Answer: Bradycardia with widened pulse pressure and irregular respirations

Cushing's triad — bradycardia, widened pulse pressure, and irregular respirations — is a late sign of dangerously elevated ICP.

A PCU patient on continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) develops hypotension. What is the nurse's first action?

Answer: Slow or stop the ultrafiltration rate and notify the physician

CRRT-associated hypotension is often due to excess fluid removal; slowing or stopping ultrafiltration and notifying the physician is the appropriate first response.

Which laboratory value indicates the greatest concern for a PCU patient with suspected rhabdomyolysis?

Answer: Creatine kinase (CK) 12,000 U/L

A markedly elevated CK (>10,000 U/L) confirms rhabdomyolysis and indicates high risk of acute kidney injury from myoglobinuria.