A patient with acute kidney injury has a serum potassium level of 6.7 mmol/L and reports muscle weakness. Which action is the priority?

Correct answer: A. Place the patient on cardiac monitoring and notify the provider

  • A. Place the patient on cardiac monitoring and notify the provider
  • B. Offer a high-potassium fruit snack for additional energy
  • C. Encourage ambulation to improve muscle strength
  • D. Administer a potassium-containing intravenous fluid

Explanation

Severe hyperkalemia can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias, so cardiac monitoring and urgent reporting are the priority. The circulation principle takes precedence over comfort measures. Potassium-containing foods and fluids can worsen hyperkalemia.

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About Renal and Urological Nursing

Covers assessment and care for urinary tract infection, glomerulonephritis, nephrotic syndrome, acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, renal stones and urinary obstruction. The subject includes intake and output, urinalysis, fluid restriction, dialysis care and the difference between prerenal, intrinsic and postrenal kidney injury.

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