A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking a loop diuretic and notes the client’s potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following physiological responses should the nurse expect related to the client’s hypokalemia?

a. Allow the client to take her morning vitamins: This is generally acceptable unless there are specific preoperative instructions regarding medication.

b. Allow the client to keep her tongue stud in: Metallic objects, including tongue studs, are

usually removed before surgery to prevent interference with equipment and to ensure patient safety.

c. Allow the client to keep her hearing aids in: It is important for the client with a hearing

impairment to keep hearing aids in place to facilitate communication and maintain awareness of the environment.

d. Allow the client to consume clear liquids up to the time of surgery: Clear liquids are typically restricted before surgery to prevent aspiration. This action may not align with standard

preoperative fasting guidelines.

A. Request an order for an antiemetic - Checking vital signs is the priority before administering any medication. Antiemetics may be considered later, but the nurse needs to assess the client's overall condition first.

B. Request a dietary consult - Assessing vital signs comes before consulting for dietary issues.

The priority is to determine the client's immediate physiological status.

C. Check the client’s vital signs - This is the correct first action as it helps to evaluate the client's cardiovascular status, especially considering the potential toxicity of digoxin in the setting of

nausea and refusal of breakfast.

D. Suggest that the client rests before eating the meal - While rest may be beneficial, assessing vital signs takes precedence to rule out any acute cardiovascular compromise.