A Patient Being Evaluated for Cardiac Pathology Asks the Nurse

question 42

Multiple Choice

A patient being evaluated for cardiac pathology asks the nurse why sodium, calcium, and potassium are so important in his diet. What is the nurse's best response?

• A)"The action potentials of the heart muscle cells are dependent upon the diffusion of sodium, potassium and calcium across the cell membrane."
• B)"Because you are on potassium supplements, it is important to monitor electrolytes."
• C)"Heart rate is affected by the oxygen levels in your body, which involves the attachment of oxygen molecules to these electrolytes."
• D)"It is the pacemaker of your heart that is responsible for the heart beat."

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Definitions:

Data Type

A data type is a classification that specifies the type of data that a variable or object can hold in programming languages.

Database Dictionary

A repository within a database containing metadata such as information about database structure, definitions, and constraints.

Data Centralization

The practice of collecting and storing all data in a single location to improve data management and access.

Database System

A systematic collection of data that supports electronic storage and manipulation of information, allowing for easy retrieval, management, and updating of data.