Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 66%
Simulated
A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values for a client who takes spironolactone and notes that the client's serum potassium level is 6.8 mEq/L. The nurse notifies the provider and anticipates that the provider will provide which of the following instructions?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
Hyperkalemia (6.8 mEq/L, normal 3.5ÔÇô5.0 mEq/L) from spironolactone (a potassium-sparing diuretic) risks cardiac arrhythmias. A 12-lead ECG detects changes (e.g., peaked T waves). ESR is unrelated, more potassium worsens hyperkalemia, and fluid restriction doesnÔÇÖt address potassium levels. ECG is urgent for cardiac monitoring.