A nurse is providing teaching to a group of adult athletes about prevention of the effects of dehydration on the body. Which of the following manifestations should the nurse include in the teaching?

Correct answer: C

A. This action would be appropriate if the potassium level were high, indicating hyperkalemia. However, since the client's potassium level is low, the nurse should administer the KCl as prescribed to address the hypokalemia. If there are any concerns about the rate or method of administration, or if the client shows signs of potassium-related complications, the nurse should then consult the provider.

B.Calling the lab to verify the client's results may seem like a reasonable action, but it's not the most appropriate in this scenario. Serum potassium levels are commonly measured accurately, and the nurse should prioritize clinical judgment based on the current potassium level in conjunction with the client's condition and medication regimen.

C. A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), indicating hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can have serious consequences, including muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and other complications. Administering potassium chloride (KCl) as prescribed is necessary to correct this deficiency and prevent potential adverse effects associated with low potassium levels.

D.Simply omitting the KCL dose without informing the healthcare provider of the client's low potassium level could lead to a missed opportunity for appropriate intervention. Documenting the omission is essential for accurate record-keeping, but it's crucial to communicate the situation to the provider for further guidance.

A. Decreased urine specific gravity:In fluid volume deficit, urine becomes more concentrated due to decreased kidney perfusion and water conservation by the body. This results in an increased urine specific gravity.

B. Decreased Hgb:Fluid volume deficit typically leads to hemoconcentration because there is less plasma volume, which makes hemoglobin and hematocrit levels appear elevated.

C. Increased urine ketones:While increased urine ketones may occur in dehydration associated with starvation or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA), it is not a hallmark finding in general fluid volume deficit. The presence of ketones depends on the underlying cause, not on fluid volume status alone.

D. Increased BUN:Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) increases in fluid volume deficit because of hemoconcentration and reduced kidney perfusion, which slows the excretion of urea. The ratio of BUN to creatinine is often elevated in dehydration (>20:1).