A client has been receiving IV potassium therapy. Upon further assessment, the nurse notes the site has become erythematous and edematous. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

Flush the IV site with normal saline, then restart the IV potassium therapy

Discontinue the IV and restart in another site

Flush the IV site with heparin

Stop the IV site and check for blood return

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A. Flush the IV site with normal saline, then restart the IV potassium therapy: Flushing and restarting the infusion at the same site is not appropriate if there is redness and swelling, as these are signs of possible phlebitis or infiltration.
B. Discontinue the IV and restart in another site: This is the correct choice. Given the erythema and edema, which indicate possible complications like phlebitis or infiltration, the IV should be discontinued and restarted in a new site to prevent further complications.
C. Flush the IV site with heparin: This is not appropriate for erythema and edema and could exacerbate the problem. Heparin is used to maintain patency of IV lines, not to treat complications.
D. Stop the IV site and check for blood return: While checking for blood return is a good practice to assess for patency, the primary action should be to discontinue the IV and start a new one due to the complications at the site.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Serum potassium 5.0 mEq/L: This is within the normal range for serum potassium (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). While potassium levels are important, they are not the primary concern with symptoms of confusion and a bounding pulse due to excessive water intake.
B. Serum osmolality 294 mmol/kg: This value is within the normal range for serum osmolality (275-295 mmol/kg). Elevated or normal osmolality would not be expected in a case of water intoxication, which dilutes serum electrolytes.
C. Serum sodium of 127 mEq/L: A serum sodium level of 127 mEq/L indicates hyponatremia, a condition often caused by excessive water intake that dilutes the sodium in the bloodstream. Symptoms such as confusion, headache, and a full bounding pulse are consistent with hyponatremia, making this the expected abnormality.
D. Serum hemoglobin 15.7 grams/dL: This is within the normal range for hemoglobin (12-16 grams/dL for women and 13.8-17.2 grams/dL for men). Hemoglobin levels would not be expected to change significantly due to water intoxication.

A. Serum potassium 3.2 mEq/L B. Pulse rate 65 bpm C. Hematocrit 36% D. Blood pressure 144/82 mmHg

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Serum potassium 3.2 mEq/L: A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which can cause serious cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. This condition requires prompt correction and collaboration with the healthcare provider before surgery to avoid intraoperative and postoperative complications.
B. Pulse rate 65 bpm: A pulse rate of 65 bpm is within the normal range (60-100 bpm). While it should be monitored, it does not require immediate intervention or collaboration with the healthcare provider before surgery.
C. Hematocrit 36%: A hematocrit level of 36% is within the lower end of the normal range (35-45% for women). This does not indicate an immediate concern that requires prompt collaboration with the healthcare provider.
D. Blood pressure 144/82 mmHg: Although this blood pressure reading is slightly elevated, it is not uncommon and can be managed perioperatively. It does not require immediate intervention before surgery.

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A client has been receiving IV potassium therapy. Upon further assessment, the nurse notes the site has become erythematous and edematous. Which action by the nurse is most appropriate?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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