A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report for a client who has been taking sodium polystyrene sulfonate.
Which of the following findings indicates a therapeutic response to the medication?

Choice A rationale

Administering aspirin for fever in a client receiving alteplase is contraindicated. Alteplase is a potent thrombolytic, and aspirin, an antiplatelet agent, would significantly increase the risk of bleeding. If fever is present, acetaminophen would be the preferred antipyretic due to its lack of antiplatelet activity, minimizing the risk of hemorrhage in this high-risk patient.

Choice B rationale

Ambulation is contraindicated in a client receiving thrombolytic therapy. Alteplase lyses existing clots, increasing the risk of bleeding, especially from sites of trauma or increased pressure. Maintaining bed rest and limiting movement helps to minimize the risk of hemorrhagic complications, such as hematoma formation or internal bleeding, which could be exacerbated by physical activity.

Choice C rationale

Administering a sodium phosphate enema is contraindicated in a client receiving thrombolytic therapy. Sodium phosphate enemas can cause rectal irritation, mucosal injury, and increased peristalsis, all of which elevate the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding in a patient whose coagulation cascade is already significantly impaired by alteplase. Stool softeners are preferred if constipation is present.

Choice D rationale

Monitoring for changes in the level of consciousness is a critical intervention for a client receiving alteplase. Intracranial hemorrhage is the most serious and life-threatening complication of thrombolytic therapy. Any alterations in neurological status, such as confusion, disorientation, or decreased responsiveness, could indicate intracranial bleeding and necessitate immediate intervention and discontinuation of the infusion.

Choice A rationale

Magnesium levels within the normal range (1.3 to 2.1 mEq/L) are important for overall electrolyte balance, but sodium polystyrene sulfonate specifically targets potassium. While hyperkalemia can sometimes be associated with other electrolyte imbalances, a normal magnesium level does not directly indicate a therapeutic response to sodium polystyrene sulfonate, as its primary action is not on magnesium.

Choice B rationale

Calcium levels within the normal range (9 to 10.5 mg/dL) are essential for various physiological functions. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate primarily exchanges sodium ions for potassium ions, not calcium. Therefore, a normal calcium level does not reflect a therapeutic response to the medication, which is specifically aimed at reducing elevated potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

Sodium levels within the normal range (136 to 145 mEq/L) are crucial for fluid balance and neurological function. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate exchanges sodium for potassium, meaning it increases the body's sodium load. While a normal sodium level is desirable, it does not directly indicate the therapeutic efficacy of the medication in reducing potassium.

Choice D rationale

Potassium 4.8 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L) indicates a therapeutic response. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is an ion-exchange resin used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging potassium ions for sodium ions in the gastrointestinal tract. A potassium level returning to within the normal range, from a previously elevated state, signifies that the medication has effectively lowered the excess potassium.