Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 74%
Simulated
A client has a serum potassium level of 6.3 mEq/L. The nurse recognizes that the highest priority intervention(s) for this client are to:
Correct answer
C,E
Rationale
Assessing for muscle weakness and flaccid paralysis (C) is a priority, as hyperkalemia can cause neuromuscular complications. Obtaining a physicianÔÇÖs order for cardiac monitoring (E) is critical due to the risk of life-threatening dysrhythmias. Diluting potassium elixir (A) or encouraging potassium-rich foods (D) would worsen hyperkalemia, and monitoring intake/output (B) is less urgent.