A nurse is caring for a client who has nephrotic syndrome and is receiving high-dose corticosteroid therapy. For which of the following electrolyte imbalances should the nurse monitor?

The correct answer is B: Hypokalemia. In nephrotic syndrome, there is excessive loss of protein in the urine, leading to a decrease in albumin levels and subsequent fluid shifting into the interstitial spaces. Corticosteroid therapy can further exacerbate potassium loss through increased renal excretion. Hypokalemia can result in muscle weakness, cardiac dysrhythmias, and fatigue. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial to prevent these complications.

Incorrect choices:
A: Hyperkalemia - Unlikely in nephrotic syndrome due to potassium loss.
C: Hypermagnesemia - Not typically associated with nephrotic syndrome or corticosteroid therapy.
D: Hypomagnesemia - While magnesium levels may also be affected, potassium monitoring is more critical in this scenario.