A nurse is providing postoperative care for a client following a transurethral resection of the prostate to treat benign prostatic hypertrophy. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

A) A potassium supplement: Administering a potassium supplement would be inappropriate for a client with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L. This level is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hyperkalemia, which can have serious effects on cardiac function. Increasing potassium intake could exacerbate the condition.

B) A fiber supplement: While fiber supplements can be beneficial for overall digestive health, they do not directly address or correct an electrolyte imbalance like hyperkalemia. They are not relevant in managing elevated potassium levels.

C) An anticonvulsant: Anticonvulsants are used to manage seizure activity and are not indicated for treating hyperkalemia. They do not have any role in the regulation or management of potassium levels in the body.

D) A diuretic: Diuretics, particularly loop diuretics, are often used to help manage hyperkalemia by promoting the excretion of potassium through urine. This helps lower the elevated potassium levels in the blood and reduce the risk of complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, administering a diuretic is an appropriate intervention for a client with a potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L.

A) Use petroleum jelly on a cotton ball to plug your ear when shampooing.
This technique helps prevent water from entering the ear during activities like showering. While it is useful for keeping the ear dry, it does not directly address preventing trauma or further hearing impairment post-surgery.

B) Clean dried blood in your ear canal with a cotton-tipped applicator.
Using cotton-tipped applicators can cause damage to the delicate ear canal and potentially disturb the surgical site. This action increases the risk of infection and trauma, potentially worsening hearing loss instead of preventing it.

C) Avoid blowing your nose for 1 month after surgery.
Refraining from nose blowing is essential because it prevents pressure changes that could disrupt the surgical repair. Such pressure changes can lead to complications like graft displacement, which can cause trauma and impair hearing.

D) Notify your provider if you have popping or crackling sensations in the affected ear.
Popping or crackling can be common as the ear heals and adjusts. These sensations typically do not indicate a problem unless accompanied by pain or other symptoms. Thus, while monitoring is important, it is not a primary preventative measure for trauma or hearing issues.