A nurse is preparing to administer prescribed intravenous potassium replacement supplements to a client who has a potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (normal range: 3.5 to 5 mEq/L). Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to include? (Select all that apply.)
Ensure that the client's urine output is at least 1 mL/kg/hour.
Educate the client regarding high-potassium food sources.
Cardiac monitoring during infusion.
Repeat blood serum potassium.
Ensure potassium infusion is prepared with 5% dextrose solution.
Correct Answer : B,C,D
Choice A rationale: Potassium is primarily excreted by the kidneys. While adequate renal function is necessary, the standard minimum urine output for adults is 30 mL/hour rather than 1 mL/kg/hour.
Choice B rationale: Low potassium levels (2.5 mEq/L) require long-term management. Educating the client on potassium-rich foods like bananas and potatoes helps prevent future depletion and supports overall electrolyte balance.
Choice C rationale: Severe hypokalemia and rapid IV replacement increase the risk of lethal cardiac dysrhythmias. Continuous ECG monitoring is vital to detect life-threatening changes in cardiac conduction and rhythm.
Choice D rationale: Following intravenous replacement, serum levels must be re-evaluated to confirm the effectiveness of the treatment and ensure the client does not develop iatrogenic hyperkalemia.
Choice E rationale: Dextrose stimulates insulin secretion, which causes an intracellular shift of potassium. This can lead to a further decrease in serum potassium levels, worsening the client's hypokalemia.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Air embolism is a potential complication during hemodialysis, but it would likely present with more acute symptoms such as chest pain or difficulty breathing.
Choice B reason: Septicemia would typically present with fever and hypotension, not necessarily with headache, nausea, and restlessness.
Choice C reason: Dialysis disequilibrium syndrome can occur after hemodialysis, especially after the first treatment, and is characterized by symptoms such as headache, nausea, and restlessness.
Choice D reason: Peritonitis is a complication associated with peritoneal dialysis, not hemodialysis.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Taking too many showers does not increase susceptibility to UTIs by washing o? protective bacteria. This is a misconception.
Choice B reason: Females do have a shorter urethra than males, which makes it easier for bacteria to reach the bladder and cause infections.
Choice C reason: While E. coli is a common bacteria causing UTIs, stating that females have more E. coli is incorrect and not a reason for increased UTIs.
Choice D reason: Sexual activity can increase the risk of UTIs, but it is not appropriate to assume that the client's age correlates with increased sexual activity.
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