The client's laboratory results indicate that the serum potassium level is 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse take?

Reference Range:

Potassium (K+) [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

Prepare to administer a glucose, then insulin, then potassium infusion.

Instruct the client to increase daily intake of potassium rich foods.

Inform the healthcare provider of the need for potassium replacement.

Change the plan of care to include hourly urinary output measurements.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A. The combination of glucose and insulin is used to shift potassium into cells, which would lower serum potassium levels further; this is not appropriate for treating hypokalemia.
B. Increasing dietary intake of potassium is important but not sufficient to correct a serum potassium level as low as 2.5 mEq/L, which requires more immediate intervention.
C. A potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L is critically low and can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. The healthcare provider should be informed immediately to initiate potassium replacement therapy, likely via intravenous infusion.
D. Hourly urinary output measurements may be useful but are not the immediate priority in treating severe hypokalemia.

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Urinary output is important but not as critical as identifying the potential source of infection.
B. A 24-hour medication history is useful but secondary to identifying an acute infection.
C. The amount of serous drainage provides information on wound healing but does not confirm infection.
D. Increased confusion in an older adult, especially with a wound present, raises concern for infection, possibly sepsis. A WBC count can help identify infection and guide further treatment.

A. "Examine your feet carefully every day." B. "Wear compression stockings daily." C. "Maintain stable blood glucose levels." D. "Have an eye examination once per year."

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Examining feet daily is important for preventing foot complications, such as ulcers, in diabetics but is not directly related to preventing retinopathy and nephropathy.
B. Wearing compression stockings is not specifically recommended for preventing retinopathy or nephropathy in diabetes.
C. Maintaining stable blood glucose levels is crucial for preventing or slowing the progression of diabetic complications such as retinopathy and nephropathy. Good glycemic control minimizes the damage to blood vessels in the eyes and kidneys.
D. While regular eye exams are important for detecting retinopathy early, maintaining stable blood glucose levels is key to preventing the development of complications in the first place.

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The client's laboratory results indicate that the serum potassium level is 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse take? Reference Range: Potassium (K+) [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

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Explanation

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The client's laboratory results indicate that the serum potassium level is 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse take?

Reference Range:

Potassium (K+) [3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]