A nurse is reviewing the laboratory report of a client and identifies a serum potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L. Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to reduce blood ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy, not to reduce potassium levels. It is not appropriate for treating hyperkalemia.

B. Sevelamer: Sevelamer is a phosphate binder used in clients with chronic kidney disease to lower serum phosphorus levels, not potassium. It is not appropriate for treating hyperkalemia.

C. Sodium polystyrene: Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate) is a cation-exchange resin used to treat hyperkalemia. It works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestine, promoting the excretion of potassium. This is the correct medication to administer for a serum potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L.

D. Darbepoetin alfa: Darbepoetin alfa is a synthetic erythropoietin used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease. It is not used to treat hyperkalemia.

A. Dilute each medication with 10 mL of tap water. Typically sterile or distilled water is preferred for diluting medications to reduce the risk of infection.

B. Flush the NG feeding tube with 30 mL of water immediately following medication administration. Flushing the tube before and after medication administration helps ensure the tube remains patent and the medication is fully delivered.

C. Maintain the head of the bed in a flat position for 30 minutes following medication administration. The head of the bed should be elevated to at least 30-45 degrees to prevent aspiration during and after medication administration.

D. Mix the three medications together prior to administering. Medications should not be mixed together unless compatibility has been confirmed, as mixing can cause interactions or blockages in the tube.