A plan of care for a patient with a low potassium level includes providing information about the effect of medications and dietary intake of foods high in potassium. How would a nurse measure achievement of an outcome for this plan?
A) physical assessment
B) health history
C) laboratory data
D) patient statements

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The level of potassium in the blood is measured through laboratory data. Therefore, measuring the patient's potassium level through lab results will determine if the outcome of the plan of care has been achieved. Physical assessment or health history may provide information about potential causes for low potassium levels or symptoms, but it does not actually measure the level. Patient statements may be useful in determining if the patient understands the information provided, but they do not provide concrete evidence of the outcome being achieved.

A Plan of Care for a Patient with a Low