When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Reference Range:
Potassium (K+) 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)

Observe color and amount of urine.

Determine apical pulse rate and rhythm.

Compare muscle strength bilaterally.

Assess strength of deep tendon reflexes.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice A reason: Observing the color and amount of urine is important for assessing kidney function and hydration status but is not the most critical intervention for hypokalemia, which can have immediate life-threatening cardiac effects.

Choice B reason: Determining the apical pulse rate and rhythm is the most important intervention. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias, and the apical pulse is the most accurate non-invasive way to assess cardiac rhythm and rate.

Choice C reason: Comparing muscle strength bilaterally is important for assessing the impact of hypokalemia on muscle function, but it is not as immediately life-threatening as cardiac effects.

Choice D reason: Assessing the strength of deep tendon reflexes can help evaluate neuromuscular involvement in hypokalemia but is less critical than monitoring for cardiac arrhythmias.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: Completing an admission assessment is typically the responsibility of a registered nurse (RN) due to the comprehensive nature of the assessment.

Choice B reason: Accessing a central venous line is usually within the scope of practice of an RN, not a PN, due to the complexity and potential complications associated with central lines.

Choice C reason: Reinforcing discharge teaching is an appropriate task for a PN, as it involves reviewing and ensuring the client understands the instructions already provided by the RN or healthcare provider.

Choice D reason: Initiating blood product infusions is generally the responsibility of an RN because of the critical nature of the task and the potential for adverse reactions.

A. Medication reference guide. B. Nursing unit charge nurse. C. Healthcare provider. D. Hospital pharmacist.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason: While a medication reference guide is useful, it does not replace the need for clarification from the prescribing healthcare provider regarding dosage discrepancies.

Choice B reason: The nursing unit charge nurse can be a resource, but the prescriber should be the first contact for medication orders.

Choice C reason: The healthcare provider who prescribed the medication is the most appropriate resource to clarify and potentially correct the dosage of the oral antibiotic.

Choice D reason: The hospital pharmacist is a valuable resource for medication information and can be consulted, but the prescriber should first be contacted to address the discrepancy in dosages.

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When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement? Reference Range: Potassium (K+) 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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When assessing a client with a serum potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L (2.5 mmol/L), which intervention is most important for the nurse to implement?

Reference Range:
Potassium (K+) 3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)