After noting increasing QRS intervals in a patient with ARF, which action should the nurse take first?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The increasing QRS interval is suggestive of hyperkalemia, so the nurse should check the most recent potassium and then notify the patient's health care provider. The BUN and creatinine will be elevated in a patient with ARF, but these would not directly affect the ECG. Documentation of the QRS interval is also appropriate, but interventions to decrease the potassium level are needed to prevent life-threatening bradycardia.

After Noting Increasing QRS Intervals in a Patient with ARF