The nurse is preparing to administer sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) rectally to a patient with an irregular pulse and weakness of the lower extremities.
What laboratory finding does the nurse determine is the reason for this treatment?

Choice A rationale

Checking the blood pressure is not the priority action in this case. The symptoms described may suggest compartment syndrome, which is a medical emergency and requires immediate intervention.

Choice B rationale

The correct action is to notify the health care provider immediately as this may indicate compartment syndrome, a serious complication that can occur after fractures and can lead to permanent damage if not treated promptly.

Choice C rationale

Assessing the incision for redness is not appropriate in this scenario as the symptoms suggest a more severe underlying issue such as compartment syndrome, which requires urgent attention.

Choice D rationale

Repositioning the leg may provide temporary relief but does not address the potential underlying issue of compartment syndrome. The priority is to notify the health care provider.

Choice A rationale

A decreased white blood cell count indicates the body's response to infection is improving, showing the effectiveness of the antibiotics.

Choice B rationale

Increased chest pain and shortness of breath would suggest worsening of the condition, not improvement.

Choice C rationale

Adventitious breath sounds and increased cough are signs that pneumonia may be persisting or worsening.

Choice D rationale

Improved appetite and weight gain are positive signs but are not direct indicators of the effectiveness of antibiotic treatment.