The Client Is Experiencing Potassium Excess and Is Being Treated

question 26

Multiple Choice

The client is experiencing potassium excess and is being treated with 10% calcium gluconate. The client has been diagnosed with cardiac disease. The highest priority action on the part of the nurse is to check the client's:

• A) medications since this drug can lead to digitalis toxicity.
• B) pulse frequently since bradycardia is likely to result.
• C) pedal pulses frequently and lower extremities for swelling.
• D) mental status since alteration in consciousness may occur.

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Definitions:

Neurons Sensitivity

The capacity of neurons to respond to stimuli or changes in the environment, affecting how signals are transmitted through the nervous system.

Receptor Molecules

Molecules, usually found on cell surfaces, that recognize and bind to specific substances, triggering a response.

Neurotransmitter

A chemical substance that is released at the end of a nerve fiber by the arrival of a nerve impulse and, by diffusing across the synapse, causes the transfer of the impulse to another nerve fiber, a muscle fiber, or some other structure.

Ligand-Gated Channels

Ion channels in cell membranes that open or close in response to the binding of a chemical signal (ligand), allowing ions to pass through the membrane.