A nurse in a long-term care facility is reviewing a client's laboratory results. The client's potassium level is 5.8 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

A. A client who is postoperative and has a Jackson-Pratt drain. A Jackson-Pratt drain is a routine postoperative device used to prevent fluid accumulation. Unless there are signs of excessive drainage, infection, or blockage, this client does not require immediate attention.
B. A client who is scheduled for surgery in 2 hr. While preoperative preparation is important, it is not the most urgent concern. This client can be attended to after addressing more pressing clinical issues, such as potential hypertensive complications.
C. A client whose blood pressure is 160/90 mm Hg and reports a headache. A significantly elevated blood pressure with a headache may indicate a hypertensive crisis, which increases the risk of stroke or other complications. This client should be assessed immediately to determine the severity and need for intervention.
D. A client who is postoperative and reports intermittent nausea. Nausea is a common postoperative symptom and can often be managed with antiemetics and dietary modifications. It does not pose an immediate life-threatening risk compared to possible hypertensive emergencies.

A. Ask the facility chaplain to visit the client. While spiritual support can be beneficial, the nurse should first acknowledge and respect the client’s decision. Offering a chaplain visit without the client's request may not align with their personal beliefs or needs.
B. Discuss alternative treatment methods with the client. End-stage kidney disease has limited treatment options beyond dialysis or kidney transplantation. If the client has already decided to stop dialysis, discussing alternatives may not be appropriate unless the client expresses interest. The priority is to support their decision and provide comfort-focused care.
C. Tell the client she should discuss this decision with her family. While family involvement can be helpful, the decision to continue or stop dialysis is ultimately the client’s right. Encouraging discussion is appropriate, but the nurse should not imply that the client must consult others before making a personal healthcare decision.
D. Support the client's decision to stop the treatment. Autonomy is a fundamental ethical principle in nursing. Clients have the right to make their own healthcare decisions, including the choice to discontinue dialysis. The nurse should offer emotional support, provide palliative care options, and ensure the client’s comfort during the transition.