ATI RN
Fluid and Electrolytes ATI Questions
Question 1 of 5
A patient who is hospitalized with a possible electrolyte imbalance is disoriented and weak, has an irregular pulse, and takes hydrochlorothiazide. He most likely suffers from:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The symptoms of hypokalemia include GI, cardiac, renal, respiratory, and neurologic disturbances. The use of potassium-wasting diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide, without potassium replacement therapy is a primary cause of hypokalemia.
Question 2 of 5
A patient is taking spironolactone (Aldactone) to control her hypertension. Her serum potassium level is 6 mEq/L. For this patient, the nurse's priority would be to assess her:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Although changes in all these findings are seen in hyperkalemia, ECG changes can indicate potentially lethal arrhythmias such as ventricular fibrillation. It wouldn't be appropriate to assess the patient's neuromuscular function, bowel sounds, or respiratory rate for effects of hyperkalemia.
Question 3 of 5
A patient is in the hospital with heart failure. The nurse notes during the evening assessment that the patient's neck veins are distended and the patient has dyspnea. What action should the nurse take?
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The symptoms of neck vein distention and dyspnea suggest fluid overload. Placing the patient in semi-Fowler's position and administering diuretics can help reduce fluid volume and improve breathing.
Question 4 of 5
A nurse is visiting an 84-year-old woman living at home and recovering from hip surgery. The woman seems confused and has poor skin turgor, and she states that 'she stops drinking water early in the day because it is too difficult to get up during the night to go to the bathroom.' The nurse explains to the woman that:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. In elderly patients, fluid deficits can lead to confusion and cognitive impairment. Limiting fluids can disrupt the body's balance, leading to such symptoms. Adjusting the timing of fluids can help maintain hydration without causing nighttime interruptions. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not address the underlying issue of fluid imbalance causing confusion. Choice A suggests unnecessary hospital readmission and medication adjustments. Choice C incorrectly normalizes confusion post-surgery and suggests it is safe not to urinate at night, which can exacerbate the issue. Choice D inaccurately attributes confusion to sleep loss rather than fluid imbalance.
Question 5 of 5
A nurse is visiting an 84-year-old woman living at home and recovering from hip surgery. The woman seems confused and has poor skin turgor, and she states that �€œshe stops drinking water early in the day because it is too difficult to get up during the night to go to the bathroom.�€ The nurse explains to the woman that:
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: In elderly patients, the clinical manifestations of fluid and electrolyte disturbances may be subtle or atypical. For example, fluid deficit may cause confusion or cognitive impairment in the elderly person.
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