A Patient with a Myocardial Infarction Is Withdrawing from Alcohol

question 34

Multiple Choice

A patient with a myocardial infarction is withdrawing from alcohol. The patient is nauseated and having tremors despite receiving medications for withdrawal. The nurse suspects the patient is experiencing which electrolyte imbalance?

• A) Serum magnesium 2.5 mEq/dL
• B) Serum phosphate 2.7 mEq/dL
• C) Serum potassium 3.1 mEq/dL
• D) Total calcium 9.0 mg/dL

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Definitions:

Amygdala

A region of the brain involved in experiencing emotions, especially those related to survival, such as fear and aggression.

Hypothalamus

A region of the brain below the thalamus, responsible for coordinating both the autonomic nervous system and the activity of the pituitary, controlling body temperature, thirst, hunger, and other homeostatic systems.

Dorsal Anterior Cingulate Cortex

A region of the brain involved in cognitive functions, including decision making, impulse control, emotion, and anticipation of reward, often linked to the regulation of physical and emotional pain.

Low-status Compensation Theory

A theory suggesting that individuals with lower status try to compensate for their position through other means, such as aggression or conspicuous consumption.