Level: Foundational
Difficulty: Easy
Subtopic: Electrolyte imbalance
NCLEX: A client has serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L, peaked T waves on the monitor, and muscle weakness. Which action is the p…
Pathophysiology Physiological Adaptation
Case Study
A client has serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L, peaked T waves on the monitor, and muscle weakness. Which action is the priority?
Question
A. Notify the provider immediately and prepare to administer prescribed cardiac protection therapy per protocol.
B. Encourage high-potassium foods to replace losses.
C. Administer scheduled potassium chloride powder now.
D. Document and recheck potassium next week.
B. Encourage high-potassium foods to replace losses.
C. Administer scheduled potassium chloride powder now.
D. Document and recheck potassium next week.
Rationale
Correct answer: A. Notify the provider immediately and prepare to administer prescribed cardiac protection therapy per protocol.
Rationale: Hyperkalemia with ECG changes is a medical emergency requiring immediate provider notification and treatment per protocol.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.
Rationale: Hyperkalemia with ECG changes is a medical emergency requiring immediate provider notification and treatment per protocol.
Hint: Apply ABCs, client stability, and NCSBN clinical judgment steps before choosing an intervention.