A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for potassium chloride (KCL) 20 mEq PO daily. The nurse reviews the clientÔÇÖs most recent laboratory results and finds the clientÔÇÖs potassium level is 5.2 mEq/L. (Normal 3.5-5.0 mEq/L) Which action should the nurse take?

The correct answer is C: Omit the KCL dose and document it was not given. The client's potassium level is elevated (5.2 mEq/L), indicating hyperkalemia. Giving the prescribed KCL in this situation could further elevate the potassium level, leading to potential serious complications like cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, withholding the KCL dose is necessary to prevent harm to the client. Calling the physician (choice A) is not the best immediate action as the nurse should first ensure the safety of the client. Calling the lab (choice B) is unnecessary since the nurse has the most recent results. Giving the ordered KCL (choice D) would be contraindicated due to the elevated potassium level.