A nurse is collecting a capillary blood sample from an older adult client. After puncturing the client's finger, the nurse is unable to obtain an adequate amount of blood. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

Choice A Reason:

Muscle weakness is incorrect. Muscle weakness can be a symptom of hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels). However, it is not the most urgent symptom, and the provider should be informed to address the underlying cause.

Choice B Reason:

Paresthesias is incorrect. Paresthesias (tingling or numbness) can also occur with hyperkalemia. While important to assess, it may not be the most urgent symptom requiring immediate attention.

Choice C Reason:

Abdominal cramps is incorrect. Abdominal cramps can be associated with hyperkalemia, but they are not the most critical symptom. It's essential to address the underlying cause, but it may not require immediate intervention compared to other symptoms.

Choice D Reason:

Palpitations is correct. Palpitations are a concerning symptom, especially in the context of hyperkalemia. Elevated potassium levels can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, and palpitations may be indicative of serious cardiac complications. This is a critical finding that requires immediate attention from the healthcare provider.

Choice A Reason:

Increase in fluid requirements is incorrect. An increase in fluid requirements is more likely to contribute to changes in fluid balance and not necessarily to long-term weight gain. While short-term fluctuations in fluid retention can affect weight, sustained weight gain is not typically attributed to increased fluid intake.

Choice B Reason:

Decrease in vitamin intake is incorrect. While inadequate vitamin intake can have various health implications, direct weight gain is not a typical outcome. However, a poor diet that lacks essential nutrients, including vitamins, can lead to overall health issues, potentially influencing weight management indirectly.

Choice C Reason:

Increase in protein requirements is incorrect. An increase in protein requirements, in itself, is not likely to result in weight gain. However, a diet with an excess of calories, including proteins, can contribute to weight gain. It's essential to consider the overall dietary balance and caloric intake.

Choice D Reason:

Decrease in muscle mass is correct. Decrease in muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, is a common age-related change. As muscle mass decreases, there can be a reduction in metabolic rate, potentially leading to weight gain. Additionally, the loss of muscle may be accompanied by an increase in fat mass, contributing to changes in overall body composition.