A client is 24 hours post-op after having a colon resection (part of the colon is removed and the healthy ends are sewn back together). His abdominal incision is dry and intact, but the nurse notes that bowel sounds have not returned. What condition is this client likely experiencing?

Choice A reason: This is the correct answer because stopping the KCl infusion is the first and most urgent action that the nurse should take. A high level of potassium in the blood, or hyperkalemia, can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. The nurse should stop the source of excess potassium, which is the KCl infusion, and monitor the client's vital signs, electrocardiogram, and symptoms.

Choice B reason: This is not the correct answer because administering oral KCl is not the first or appropriate action that the nurse should take. Oral KCl would increase the potassium level in the blood, which is already too high. The nurse should avoid giving any potassium supplements or foods that are high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes.

Choice C reason: This is not the correct answer because encouraging fluids for dilution is not the first or effective action that the nurse should take. Fluids alone would not lower the potassium level in the blood, but rather dilute the concentration of other electrolytes, such as sodium and calcium. The nurse should administer fluids only as prescribed by the physician, and in conjunction with other treatments, such as diuretics, insulin, or sodium bicarbonate.

Choice D reason: This is not the correct answer because calling the pharmacy is not the first or priority action that the nurse should take. Calling the pharmacy may be necessary to obtain the medications that can lower the potassium level in the blood, such as diuretics, insulin, or sodium bicarbonate. However, the nurse should first stop the KCl infusion and notify the physician, who will order the appropriate medications and dosages.

Choice A reason: Hypernatremia is a condition of high sodium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as thirst, dry mouth, confusion, agitation, and seizures. It is not likely to cause postural hypotension, which is a drop in blood pressure when changing positions.

Choice B reason: Hyponatremia is a condition of low sodium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle weakness, fatigue, and confusion. It can also cause postural hypotension, as sodium helps regulate fluid balance and blood pressure.

Choice C reason: Hyperkalemia is a condition of high potassium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as muscle weakness, paralysis, irregular heartbeat, and cardiac arrest. It is not likely to cause postural hypotension, which is more related to fluid and sodium levels.

Choice D reason: Hypokalemia is a condition of low potassium levels in the blood. It can cause symptoms such as muscle cramps, weakness, fatigue, constipation, and arrhythmias. It is not likely to cause postural hypotension, which is more related to fluid and sodium levels.