For a client in renal failure with an abnormally elevated serum potassium level, the priority assessment by the nurse would be the client's
A) electrocardiogram (ECG) strips.
B) level of consciousness.
C) serial BUN and creatinine levels.
D) urine output.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

High potassium levels have the potential to induce life-threatening dysrhythmias. The nurse would monitor and treat these according to protocol and report ECG changes. Unfortunately, with severely elevated potassium levels, the myocardium will be unresponsive to medications or defibrillation, so changes in the ECG need to be reported immediately. The other options are needed assessments as well, but do not carry the priority of the ECG readings. The renal changes are a precursor to hyperkalemia, not the result of it.

For a Client in Renal Failure with an Abnormally Elevated