A patient is taking spironolactone and comes to the clinic complaining of weakness and tingling of the hands and feet.The primary care NP notes a heart rate of 62 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 100/58 mm Hg.The NP should:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient is showing signs of hyperkalemia,so the NP should order an ECG and serum electrolytes.This should be done before changing the medication.Because hyperkalemia can cause fatal arrhythmias,an ECG is necessary.

A Patient Is Taking Spironolactone and Comes to the Clinic