Practice Quiz

CCRN Nursing Exam Prep - Adult Critical Care

Category - Medical Surgical

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Julie Johnson is receiving total parenteral nutrition (TPN). The nurse reviews the following lab values:

Glucose = 72 mg/dL
Chloride = 98 mg/dL
Sodium = 138 mEq/L
Potassium = 3.0 mEq/L

Based on the nurse's review of the lab values, which nursing action is appropriate?

  1. Discontinue the TPN administration
  2. Notify the physician and discuss the need for potassium replacement
  3. Administer 50% dextrose immediately
  4. Assess the patient's vital signs and perform a physical assessment
Explanation

Answer: B - A normal potassium level is in the range of 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. A client with a potassium of 3.0 mEq/L is hypokalemic. Hypokalemia can result in excitability of cardiovascular, neuromuscular, and gastrointestinal function. The physician should be notified and the need for potassium replacement discussed.

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