The client's laboratory results indicate that the serum potassium level is 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse take?
Reference Range: Potassium (K+) [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]
Prepare to administer a glucose, then insulin, then potassium infusion.
Instruct the client to increase daily intake of potassium rich foods.
Inform the healthcare provider of the need for potassium replacement.
Change the plan of care to include hourly urinary output measurements.
Change the plan of care to include hourly urinary output measurements.
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. The combination of glucose and insulin is used to shift potassium into cells, which would lower serum potassium levels further; this is not appropriate for treating hypokalemia.
B. Increasing dietary intake of potassium is important but not sufficient to correct a serum potassium level as low as 2.5 mEq/L, which requires more immediate intervention.
C. A potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L is critically low and can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. The healthcare provider should be informed immediately to initiate potassium replacement therapy, likely via intravenous infusion.
D. Hourly urinary output measurements may be useful but are not the immediate priority in treating severe hypokalemia.
Free Nursing Test Bank
- Free Pharmacology Quiz 1
- Free Medical-Surgical Quiz 2
- Free Fundamentals Quiz 3
- Free Maternal-Newborn Quiz 4
- Free Anatomy and Physiology Quiz 5
- Free Obstetrics and Pediatrics Quiz 6
- Free Fluid and Electrolytes Quiz 7
- Free Community Health Quiz 8
- Free Promoting Health across the Lifespan Quiz 9
- Free Multidimensional Care Quiz 10
View Related questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Urinary output is important but not as critical as identifying the potential source of infection.
B. A 24-hour medication history is useful but secondary to identifying an acute infection.
C. The amount of serous drainage provides information on wound healing but does not confirm infection.
D. Increased confusion in an older adult, especially with a wound present, raises concern for infection, possibly sepsis. A WBC count can help identify infection and guide further treatment.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Turning on overhead lights ensures that the client can see the instructions clearly, which is particularly important for older adults who may have visual impairments. Adequate lighting helps improve comprehension and reduces the risk of misunderstandings.
B. Standing behind the client may cause confusion or discomfort. It is better to face the client while communicating.
C. Handouts should be written at a lower reading level, typically around the 5th to 6th grade, to ensure that most clients can understand them, especially older adults.
D. Background music may be distracting rather than helpful during the provision of important instructions.