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. Applying antibiotic ointment is not appropriate for this situation as the issue is likely compromised blood flow, not infection.
B. Checking oxygen saturation is not related to the color change of the stoma.
C. Switching to non-latex supplies is important for clients with latex allergies but is not relevant to the immediate problem.
D. A dark red to bluish color of the stoma suggests compromised blood flow and possible ischemia, which requires immediate medical attention. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider immediately to address this potentially serious complication.

A. Acetaminophen. B. Captopril. C. Omeprazole. D. Prednisone.

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Acetaminophen, especially in high doses or with prolonged use, is known to cause hepatotoxicity, which can lead to jaundice. Notifying the healthcare provider is crucial to prevent further liver damage.
B. Captopril, an ACE inhibitor used for hypertension, is not commonly associated with jaundice or liver dysfunction.
C. Omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor used for GERD, is less likely to cause liver damage compared to acetaminophen.
D. Prednisone, a corticosteroid, can have many side effects, but hepatotoxicity is not among the most common, making acetaminophen the most concerning drug in this context.

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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)]