A nurse in the operating room is caring for a client who suddenly develops muscle rigidity and a rise in body temperature. What emergency medication should the nurse expect to receive an order to start administering?

Choice A reason:

Hyperkalemia refers to high potassium levels, which can occur in ESKD but does not explain the shortness of breath, swelling, or crackles in the lungs. These symptoms are more indicative of fluid overload.

Choice B reason:

Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels, can occur in ESKD but is not directly linked to the symptoms of fluid overload like shortness of breath and crackles. It primarily affects neurological status rather than causing respiratory symptoms.

Choice C reason:

Hypervolemia, or fluid overload, is the likely cause of the client’s symptoms. End-stage kidney disease often leads to the accumulation of fluids in the body due to impaired kidney function, resulting in swelling (edema), shortness of breath, crackles in the lungs, and elevated blood pressure.

Choice D reason:

Hypovolemia, or low blood volume, would typically present with hypotension and dehydration rather than the fluid overload symptoms observed in this client.

Choice A reason:

Ferrous sulfate is often taken for longer than 14 days, depending on the severity of the iron deficiency. The duration of treatment is typically based on the individual's response and their laboratory values, rather than a fixed short-term period.

Choice B reason:

Taking ferrous sulfate with a glass of milk is not recommended as calcium in milk can inhibit the absorption of iron. Instead, it should be taken with water or a beverage high in vitamin C, which enhances iron absorption.

Choice C reason:

Foods high in vitamin C, such as oranges, strawberries, and bell peppers, will promote the absorption of iron. Vitamin C converts iron into a form that is more easily absorbed by the body, making this advice essential for maximizing the effectiveness of the iron supplement.

Choice D reason:

Stools are often dark, tarry, or greenish in color when taking iron supplements, not dark red. This coloration is due to the unabsorbed iron and is a normal side effect of ferrous sulfate, not indicative of gastrointestinal bleeding.