Identify the action the nurse should take when he notes that a client who is receiving captopril (Capoten) for congestive heart failure has developed hyperkalemia.
A) Give the next dose with a full 240 mL glass of water.
B) Hold the next dose and notify the physician.
C) Increase the client’s intake of fresh fruits and vegetables.
D) Reduce the dose by half and give both a.m. and p.m.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia is a known adverse effect of captopril. Holding the next dose and notifying the physician is the priority action to be taken to address the elevated potassium levels. It may also be important to monitor the client's potassium levels closely and adjust the dose or medication as needed. Increasing the client's intake of fresh fruits and vegetables or giving the next dose with a full glass of water will not address the hyperkalemia and may not be safe or effective interventions. Reducing the dose without physician approval may also be unsafe and inappropriate.

Identify the Action the Nurse Should Take When He Notes