The telemetry unit nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client who is scheduled for an operative procedure later in the day. The nurse notes on the laboratory report that the client has a serum potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L, indicative of hyperkalemia. The nurse informs the physician of this laboratory result because the nurse recognizes hyperkalemia increases the client's operative risk for which of the following?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Hyperkalemia can cause cardiac problems, such as arrhythmias and cardiac arrest, by altering the electrical activity of the heart. Therefore, it is important to inform the physician of this laboratory result, as the client's operative risk can be increased.

The Telemetry Unit Nurse Is Reviewing Laboratory Results for a Client