A patient taking lisinopril for hypertension has a serum potassium level of 5.8 mmol/L and reports muscle weakness. Which action should the nurse take first?
Correct answer: B. Report the potassium result promptly
- A. Administer the prescribed lisinopril dose
- B. Report the potassium result promptly
- C. Encourage the patient to eat bananas
- D. Restrict the patient's oral fluid intake
Explanation
A potassium level of 5.8 mmol/L with weakness suggests clinically significant hyperkalaemia, which can cause dangerous dysrhythmias. The nurse should report it promptly before giving lisinopril, because ACE inhibitors can further increase potassium; bananas would worsen the problem.
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About Cardiovascular Nursing
Covers assessment and nursing care for hypertension, coronary artery disease, angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, valvular disease and dysrhythmias. It includes interpreting vital signs and ECG findings, managing chest pain, monitoring cardiac medicines, recognizing complications and distinguishing left-sided from right-sided heart failure.
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