A nurse is assessing a client who has obstructive sleep apnea. Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A) "It's a good idea to help make sure your husband can sleep comfortably.":
This encourages the partner to administer medication, which can lead to overmedication and potential harm.

B) "Why do you think your husband needs more medication when he is asleep?":
This might cause the partner to feel defensive. It also does not provide the necessary education about the correct use of the PCA pump.

C) "Next time you think he needs more medication, call me and I'll push the button.":
This is inappropriate as well. It does not address the core issue that only the patient should be pressing the button to ensure safe and appropriate use of the PCA pump.

D) "Your husband should decide when more medication is needed.":
This educates the partner about the proper use of the PCA pump, emphasizing that only the patient should press the button to ensure they are receiving medication only when they feel pain. This minimizes the risk of overmedication and adverse effects.

Potassium Levels: The postoperative potassium level for the client is 3.0 mEq/L, which falls below the normal range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Potassium is a critical electrolyte necessary for the proper functioning of cardiac muscles. It plays a pivotal role in maintaining the electrical conductivity of the heart. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can disrupt this electrical conductivity, leading to abnormal heart rhythms or arrhythmias. Arrhythmias can manifest as palpitations, irregular heartbeats, or more severe cardiac events, which can be life-threatening if not addressed promptly.

Importance of Potassium in Cardiac Function: Potassium is essential for the repolarization phase of the cardiac action potential. It helps in the return of the cell to its resting state after each heartbeat. A deficiency in potassium disrupts this balance, increasing the risk of erratic heartbeats and arrhythmias. Low potassium can prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which is a marker for potential arrhythmic events.

Clinical Implications: For a postoperative client, maintaining electrolyte balance is crucial. Surgery and anesthesia can affect fluid and electrolyte levels, making it essential to monitor and correct any imbalances. The decrease in potassium levels from 3.5 mEq/L preoperatively to 3.0 mEq/L postoperatively highlights a trend that must be addressed to prevent complications such as arrhythmias.

Preventative Measures: To mitigate the risk of arrhythmias, the healthcare team should consider interventions to correct the hypokalemia. This may include administering potassium supplements orally or intravenously, depending on the severity and clinical context. Continuous cardiac monitoring may also be warranted to detect and manage any emerging arrhythmic events promptly.