A client diagnosed with type II diabetes controlled with a biguanide medication and a history of liver disease is scheduled for a computed tomography (CT) scan with contrast medium of the abdomen to evaluate pancreatic function.
Which intervention should the nurse implement?

Choice A rationale

Administering packed RBCs is important but is not the highest priority. Stabilizing the client’s hemodynamic status is critical first.

Choice B rationale

Elevating the client's feet can help with blood circulation but does not address the immediate need to stabilize blood pressure and fluid volume.

Choice C rationale

Initiating a dopamine IV infusion can help with hypotension, but it is not the first action. Stabilizing the client with fluids is a higher priority.

Choice D rationale

Increasing the client's IV fluid rate is the highest priority to address hypotension and ensure adequate blood volume before administering blood products or other medications. .

Choice B rationale

Potassium levels should be reviewed before administering furosemide. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause significant potassium loss through increased urine output. Monitoring potassium is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and other serious complications.

Choice A rationale

Bicarbonate levels are not directly impacted by furosemide use and are less critical to review in this context. While they are important in assessing acid-base balance, they are not the primary concern when administering furosemide.

Choice C rationale

Phosphate levels are not typically affected by furosemide and are not the main focus before administration. Monitoring phosphate might be important in other scenarios, but it is not directly relevant here.

Choice D rationale

Carbon dioxide levels are more relevant to respiratory function and acid-base balance but are not directly impacted by furosemide. The focus should be on monitoring electrolytes, particularly potassium, to prevent complications from diuretic therapy.