A patient's potassium level is 6.5 mEq/L.The nurse would prepare for which intervention?
A)Administration of intravenous fluids supplemented with 40 mEq of potassium in each liter of fluid
B)Administration of oral potassium 2 or 3 times daily until levels are normal
C)Administration of Kayexalate
D)Administration of a D50W bolus

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L indicates severe hyperkalemia, which can lead to cardiac dysrhythmias and cardiac arrest. Kayexalate is a medication that helps remove excess potassium from the body and is the most appropriate intervention in this situation. Intravenous fluids with potassium should not be given, as it would only exacerbate the hyperkalemia. Oral potassium is also contraindicated in this case. A D50W bolus would not be helpful in treating hyperkalemia.

A Patient's Potassium Level Is 6