A nurse is caring for a client who develops muscle cramps during hemodialysis. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

A) This statement is incorrect. Serum calcium levels are not directly related to ESA therapy for anemia management. ESA therapy focuses on increasing red blood cell production.

B) This statement is incorrect. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels are indicators of kidney function and may be monitored for other reasons in a client on hemodialysis. However, they are not directly related to ESA therapy for anemia management.

C) This statement is accurate. During ESA therapy, the nurse should closely monitor the client's hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. ESAs stimulate the production of red blood cells and can increase hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. Regular monitoring is essential to prevent anemia or excessive increases in these values.

D) This statement is incorrect. Serum potassium levels may be monitored for a client on hemodialysis due to the potential for electrolyte imbalances, but they are not the primary concern during ESA therapy for anemia management.

A) This statement is incorrect. Increasing the dialysis session duration would not address the client's muscle cramps and may lead to further fluid and electrolyte imbalances.

B) Muscle cramps during hemodialysis can be caused by the cooling effect of the dialysate solution. Increasing the temperature of the dialysate can help alleviate the cramps.

C) This statement is incorrect. Decreasing the dialysate solution flow rate may not directly address the muscle cramps and may not be indicated unless there are other clinical indications to do so.

D) This statement is incorrect. Administering an anticoagulant medication is not relevant to address muscle cramps. Muscle cramps during hemodialysis are often caused by the cooling effect of the dialysate solution. Increasing the temperature of the dialysate can help alleviate the cramps.