The nurse is caring for a client with a potassium level of 5.9 mEq/L. The healthcare provider prescribes both glucose and insulin for the client. The client's spouse asks, "Why is insulin needed?" Which response by the nurse is the most appropriate?
A)"The insulin will cause extra potassium to move into his cells, which will lower the potassium level in the blood."
B)"Insulin is safer than other medications that can lower potassium levels."
C)"The insulin lowers his blood sugar levels and causes the extra potassium to be excreted."
D)"The insulin will help his kidneys excrete the extra potassium."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A)Serum potassium levels may be temporarily lowered by administering glucose and insulin, which cause potassium to leave the extracellular fluid and enter cells. Giving insulin to decrease serum potassium levels is not considered a safer method than other medications that can be used. Insulin does not promote renal excretion of potassium. Serum potassium is lowered by entering the cells; this is not controlled by serum glucose.
B)Serum potassium levels may be temporarily lowered by administering glucose and insulin, which cause potassium to leave the extracellular fluid and enter cells. Giving insulin to decrease serum potassium levels is not considered a safer method than other medications that can be used. Insulin does not promote renal excretion of potassium. Serum potassium is lowered by entering the cells; this is not controlled by serum glucose.
C)Serum potassium levels may be temporarily lowered by administering glucose and insulin, which cause potassium to leave the extracellular fluid and enter cells. Giving insulin to decrease serum potassium levels is not considered a safer method than other medications that can be used. Insulin does not promote renal excretion of potassium. Serum potassium is lowered by entering the cells; this is not controlled by serum glucose.
D)Serum potassium levels may be temporarily lowered by administering glucose and insulin, which cause potassium to leave the extracellular fluid and enter cells. Giving insulin to decrease serum potassium levels is not considered a safer method than other medications that can be used. Insulin does not promote renal excretion of potassium. Serum potassium is lowered by entering the cells; this is not controlled by serum glucose.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Client with a Potassium