Competency-Based Assessments
1
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Use the internet to research dietary practices to improve electrolyte abnormalities in patients with renal disease. Describe common dietary guidelines for patients with chronic kidney disease.
Marika, a 45-year-old patient, presents to the emergency department with complaints of persistent vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain for the past 24 hours. She reports feeling weak and lightheaded.
Laboratory Results:
- pH: 7.28
- PaCO2: 32 mm Hg
- HCO3–: 18 mEq/L
- sodium (Na+): 140 mEq/L
- potassium (K+): 3.2 mEq/L
- chloride (Cl–): 96 mEq/L
2
.
Identify whether each lab is normal or abnormal.
3
.
Based on the lab results, does Marika’s pH suggest acidosis or alkalosis?
4
.
According to Marika’s labs, which acid-base balance is she experiencing?
5
.
Many patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) have chronic respiratory acidosis. Spend fifteen minutes reviewing COPD signs and symptoms. What trends in acid-base imbalance would nursing expect in a patient with COPD who presents with a productive cough and fever?
6
.
A patient with chronic kidney disease presents to the emergency department with a decrease in urine output from baseline and evidence of fluid overload. An electrolyte panel is sent that shows the following: Na+ of 130 mEq/L, K+ of 5.4 mEq/L, Ca+ of 10.2 mg/dL, and a phosphate level of 4.3 mmol/L. Based on the laboratory values, what is the highest priority for this patient?