A client is admitted with heart failure (HF) and left ventricular hypertrophy. Which intervention is most likely to avert development of cardiomegaly and improve myocardial contractility?

A. This action is typically used in the treatment of hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), not hypokalemia. The combination of glucose and insulin is used to temporarily drive potassium into cells and lower serum potassium levels. For severe hypokalemia, the priority is to administer potassium replacement therapy rather than attempting to lower potassium levels, as the client needs to correct the deficiency.
B. Severe hypokalemia requires prompt correction to prevent complications. Potassium replacement should be administered according to healthcare provider orders. This may involve oral or intravenous potassium supplements, depending on the severity of the hypokalemia and the client's condition. Informing the healthcare provider is essential for ensuring that appropriate and timely treatment is provided.
C. While increasing potassium intake through diet is important for managing mild cases of hypokalemia, a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L is severe and likely requires immediate medical intervention. Dietary changes alone are insufficient and not timely enough to address such a critical deficiency.
D. Monitoring urinary output is important in managing electrolyte imbalances to assess kidney function and fluid balance, but it is not the primary intervention for severe hypokalemia. The immediate priority is to address the low potassium level through appropriate replacement therapy.

"I can stop taking the phenytoin If I go for a while and don't have a seizure." This statement indicates a lack of understanding. Anti-seizure medications are typically lifelong and should not be stopped without medical advice.

"Having a medic alert bracelet might be a good idea, but it is up to me to decide if I want it or not." This statement also shows a lack of understanding. A medic alert bracelet is crucial for individuals with seizures, as it provides essential information to emergency responders in case of an emergency.

"I don't need to go to the hospital if I have another seizure unless it is a very long seizure or if I have several in a row." This statement demonstrates a lack of understanding. Any seizure should be reported to a healthcare provider, as it could indicate changes in seizure control.

“There are really no lifestyle changes that I can do that will affect my risk for having another seizure." This statement indicates a lack of understanding. Certain lifestyle factors, such as sleep deprivation, stress, and alcohol consumption, can trigger seizures.

"I may never know why! started having seizures." This statement indicates understanding. While the cause of seizures is often unknown, it's important for the client to acknowledge this possibility.