Which set correctly pairs signs with electrolyte imbalance and a typical nursing response?

Which set correctly pairs signs with electrolyte imbalance and a typical nursing response?

• A. Hyperkalemia: arrhythmias and muscle weakness; Hyponatremia: confusion and seizures; Hypocalcemia: tingling around mouth and muscle cramps; Nursing response: monitor ECG and labs, implement safety measures, notify clinician.
• B. Hyperkalemia: arrhythmias; Hyponatremia: dizziness; Hypocalcemia: itching; Nursing response: monitor heart rate.
• C. Hyperkalemia: shortness of breath; Hyponatremia: fever; Hypocalcemia: weight gain; Nursing response: ignore.
• D. Hyperkalemia: dizziness; Hyponatremia: seizures; Hypocalcemia: rash; Nursing response: administer diuretics.

Answer: (A)

Think about how electrolyte problems manifest and what nurses do to keep patients safe. Hyperkalemia can disrupt heart rhythm, so arrhythmias and muscle weakness are typical. The best nursing approach is to monitor the heart with ECG, check potassium levels with labs, maintain safety if weakness is present, and alert the clinician for treatment adjustments. Hyponatremia affects the brain, so confusion and potential seizures reflect CNS involvement; the right response includes watching mental status, applying safety measures to prevent injury, and notifying the clinician while monitoring sodium levels. Hypocalcemia causes neuromuscular irritability, producing tingling around the mouth and muscle cramps; a prudent plan is to monitor calcium and signs, ensure safety, and communicate with the clinician for management. This pairing aligns signs with the corresponding imbalance and a sensible, safety-focused nursing response.

Think about how electrolyte problems manifest and what nurses do to keep patients safe. Hyperkalemia can disrupt heart rhythm, so arrhythmias and muscle weakness are typical. The best nursing approach is to monitor the heart with ECG, check potassium levels with labs, maintain safety if weakness is present, and alert the clinician for treatment adjustments. Hyponatremia affects the brain, so confusion and potential seizures reflect CNS involvement; the right response includes watching mental status, applying safety measures to prevent injury, and notifying the clinician while monitoring sodium levels. Hypocalcemia causes neuromuscular irritability, producing tingling around the mouth and muscle cramps; a prudent plan is to monitor calcium and signs, ensure safety, and communicate with the clinician for management. This pairing aligns signs with the corresponding imbalance and a sensible, safety-focused nursing response.