Following a unilateral adrenalectomy, nurse Betty would assess for hyperkalemia shown by which of the following?
A. Muscle weakness
B. Tremors
C. Diaphoresis
D. Constipation
Correct Answer: A. Muscle weakness
Muscle weakness, bradycardia, nausea, diarrhea, and paresthesia of the hands, feet, tongue, and face are findings associated with hyperkalemia, which is transient and occurs from transient hypoaldosteronism when the adenoma is removed. Tremors, diaphoresis, and constipation aren’t seen in hyperkalemia.
Option B: Medications that may predispose to the development of hyperkalemia include digoxin, potassium-sparing diuretics, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, ace-inhibitors, or recent intravenous (IV) potassium, total parenteral nutrition, potassium penicillin, or succinylcholine. Patients may complain of weakness, fatigue, palpitations, or syncope.
Option C: Most patients are relatively asymptomatic with mild and even moderate hyperkalemia. Elevated potassium is often discovered in screening labs done in patients with nonspecific complaints or those with suspected electrolyte abnormalities due to infection, dehydration, or hypoperfusion.
Option D: Physical exam findings may include hypertension and edema in the setting of renal disease. There may also be signs of hypoperfusion. Muscle tenderness may be present in patients with rhabdomyolysis. Jaundice may be seen in patients with hemolytic conditions. Patients may have muscle weakness, flaccid paralysis, or depressed deep tendon reflexes.
No comments:
Post a Comment