NCLEX-RN

Category - Reduction of Risk

A nurse is caring for a newly-admitted female client with a serum potassium level of 3.3 mEq/L. As the nurse reviews the client’s records, which information most likely indicates the cause of her abnormal potassium level?
  1. The client is taking Aldactone (Spironolactone).
  2. The client has Addison’s disease.
  3. The client has a history of renal disease.
  4. The client required gastrointestinal suction yesterday.
Explanation
Answer - D - The normal serum potassium level is between 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Suctioning potassium-rich gastrointestinal fluids can result in hypokalemia. Addison’s disease, renal disease, and intake of Aldactone--a potassium-sparing diuretic--increases the risk for hyperkalemia.
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