A nurse is teaching a newly licensed nurse about physiological changes in the digestive system that occur with aging. The nurse should include older adults might experience which of the following physiological changes?

A. Lactulose: Lactulose is used to reduce blood ammonia levels in hepatic encephalopathy, not to reduce potassium levels. It is not appropriate for treating hyperkalemia.

B. Sevelamer: Sevelamer is a phosphate binder used in clients with chronic kidney disease to lower serum phosphorus levels, not potassium. It is not appropriate for treating hyperkalemia.

C. Sodium polystyrene: Sodium polystyrene (Kayexalate) is a cation-exchange resin used to treat hyperkalemia. It works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestine, promoting the excretion of potassium. This is the correct medication to administer for a serum potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L.

D. Darbepoetin alfa: Darbepoetin alfa is a synthetic erythropoietin used to treat anemia associated with chronic kidney disease. It is not used to treat hyperkalemia.

A. The nurse coats the indwelling urinary catheter with lubricant. This is correct procedure and requires no intervention. Lubricating the catheter reduces friction and discomfort during insertion.

B. The nurse applies the sterile drape prior to inserting the urinary catheter. This is correct procedure and requires no intervention. The sterile drape maintains a sterile field.

C. The nurse separates the client's labia with her dominant hand. The nurse should separate the client's labia with her non-dominant hand, which then remains in place as a "dirty" hand. The dominant hand, which remains sterile, is used to insert the catheter.

D. The nurse provides perineal care prior to inserting the urinary catheter. This is correct procedure and requires no intervention. Perineal care reduces the risk of introducing bacteria into the urinary tract.