Practice Quiz

NCLEX-RN

Category - Physiological

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A nurse is caring for an elderly and debilitated client admitted for anorexia and inability to tolerate oral foods due to irritable bowel syndrome. While reviewing the latest laboratory results, the nurse notes a low serum magnesium level. The nurse understands that magnesium loss may be caused by:
  1. Alcoholism
  2. Lack of magnesium in the diet
  3. Immobility
  4. Diarrhea
Explanation
Answer: D - In this client, the probable culprit for hypomagnesemia is diarrhea due to irritable bowel syndrome. Major loss of magnesium may occur from GI issues like diarrhea, intestinal fistulas, and lack of magnesium replacement after prolonged nasogastric suctioning. In normal people, hypomagnesemia may occur with alcohol withdrawal. Immobility usually results in calcium loss.
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