A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client and identifies a serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?

Lactulose

Acetylcysteine

Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate)

Triamterene

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia levels, not for hyperkalemia.

B. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used for acetaminophen overdose or as a mucolytic agent, not for hyperkalemia.

C. Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate): Kayexalate is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium for potassium in the intestines, promoting the elimination of potassium through the stool. This is the correct treatment for a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L, which is dangerously high.

D. Triamterene: Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic and would worsen hyperkalemia, not treat it.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Dextrose 10% in water: Dextrose solutions provide calories but do not restore volume or replace electrolytes. They are not typically used in hypovolemic shock.

B. Lactated Ringer's: Lactated Ringer’s solution is an isotonic solution containing sodium, potassium, calcium, and lactate, which helps restore both fluid volume and electrolytes in the case of hypovolemic shock. It is commonly used while awaiting blood transfusions.

C. 0.33% sodium chloride: This is a hypotonic solution that can cause fluid to shift into cells and is not appropriate for fluid resuscitation in hypovolemia, which requires an isotonic solution.

D. 0.45% sodium chloride: This is a hypotonic solution as well, and it could worsen hypotension by causing fluid shifts into the cells, which is not ideal for treating hypovolemic shock.

A. Have the laboratory draw a blood sample for an erythrocyte sedimentation rate. B. Restrict fluid intake. C. Obtain a 12-lead ECG. D. Administer potassium gluconate 40 mEq orally.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Have the laboratory draw a blood sample for an erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR): ESR measures inflammation and is unrelated to hyperkalemia.

B. Restrict fluid intake: Fluid restriction is not appropriate for hyperkalemia unless specifically related to fluid overload or renal failure.

C. Obtain a 12-lead ECG: Hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias such as peaked T waves, widened QRS complexes, or asystole. ECG monitoring is essential.

D. Administer potassium gluconate 40 mEq orally: This would worsen hyperkalemia and is contraindicated.

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A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client and identifies a serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is assisting with the care of a client who is hypovolemic due to blood loss following a motor-vehicle crash and needs a blood transfusion immediately. The nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following IV solutions while awaiting blood from a type and cross-match?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values for a client who takes spironolactone and notes that the client's serum potassium level is 6.8 mEq/L (3.5 -5 mEq/L). The nurse notifies the provider and anticipates that the provider will provide which of the following instructions?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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