A nurse is reviewing the medical record of a client and identifies a serum potassium 6.8 mEq/L (3.5-5 mEq/L). Which of the following medications should the nurse expect to administer?
Lactulose
Acetylcysteine
Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate)
Triamterene
The Correct Answer is C
A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia levels, not for hyperkalemia.
B. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used for acetaminophen overdose or as a mucolytic agent, not for hyperkalemia.
C. Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate): Kayexalate is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium for potassium in the intestines, promoting the elimination of potassium through the stool. This is the correct treatment for a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L, which is dangerously high.
D. Triamterene: Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic and would worsen hyperkalemia, not treat it.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Peripheral pulses +1: Weak peripheral pulses indicate continued hypovolemia or dehydration. Effectiveness would be reflected in stronger pulses.
B. Urine output 200 mL/4 hr: Adequate urine output (≥30 mL/hr) indicates improved kidney perfusion and hydration status, suggesting effective treatment.
C. Urine specific gravity 1.04: This value is elevated, indicating continued dehydration; effective hydration would reduce this value to the normal range of 1.005-1.030.
D. Heart rate 104/min: Tachycardia is a compensatory response to dehydration. Improvement would manifest as a normalized heart rate (60-100 bpm).
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing ammonia levels, not for hyperkalemia.
B. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used for acetaminophen overdose or as a mucolytic agent, not for hyperkalemia.
C. Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate): Kayexalate is used to treat hyperkalemia by exchanging sodium for potassium in the intestines, promoting the elimination of potassium through the stool. This is the correct treatment for a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L, which is dangerously high.
D. Triamterene: Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic and would worsen hyperkalemia, not treat it.
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