Question

37) A nurse assesses a patient for electrolyte imbalances. Which clinical manifestations indicate that patient may have a potassium deficiency? SELECT ALL THAT APPLY.

1. Ventricular dysrhythmias
2. Increased blood pressure
3. Muscle weakness
4. Chest pain
5. Dry hair

Answer 1

Clinical manifestations of potassium deficiency (hypokalemia) include ventricular dysrhythmias and muscle weakness. Other symptoms listed, such as increased blood pressure, chest pain, and dry hair, are less related or not associated with hypokalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse assessing a patient for electrolyte imbalances, specifically looking for signs of potassium deficiency, will likely be checking for multiple symptoms. Potassium imbalances can have significant effects on the body, particularly on the muscular and nervous systems as well as the heart.

Clinical manifestations that may indicate a potassium deficiency, or hypokalemia, include:

• Ventricular dysrhythmias: This refers to abnormal heart rhythms arising from the lower chambers of the heart, which can be a serious complication of hypokalemia.
• Increased blood pressure: Typically not directly associated with potassium deficiency, but related electrolyte imbalances can sometimes manifest as blood pressure changes.
• Increased blood pressure is usually not a symptom of potassium deficiency but is included here for completion.
• Weak muscles or muscle weakness: This is due to the role of potassium ions in muscle contraction and nerve impulse conduction.

Of the options provided, ventricular dysrhythmias (1) and muscle weakness (3) would likely be the most directly related symptoms to potassium deficiency. The other symptoms listed (2, 4, and 5) can be linked to various causes and are not as specifically related to hypokalemia. Chest pain is not typically a direct symptom of potassium deficiency and dry hair is not associated with hypokalemia.