Question

You are caring for a patient who is being treated on the oncology unit with a diagnosis of lung cancer with bone metastases. During your assessment you note the patient complains of a new onset of weakness with abdominal pain. Further assessment suggests that the patient likely has a fluid volume deficit. You should recognize that this patient may be experience what electrolyte imbalance.

a) Hyperkalemia
b) Hyponatremia
c) Hypocalcemia
d) Hypokalemia

Answer 1

The patient may be experiencing hypokalemia, which is an abnormally decreased blood level of potassium. Hypokalemia can lead to muscle weakness and can affect various body systems.

Step-by-step explanation:

The patient may be experiencing hypokalemia, which is an abnormally decreased blood level of potassium. The weakness and abdominal pain can be symptoms of fluid volume deficit, which can cause electrolyte imbalances. Hypokalemia can lead to muscle weakness and can affect various body systems, including the cardiovascular and gastrointestinal systems.