The nurse is caring for a patient admitted with hypertension and chronic renal failure who receives hemodialysis three times per week.The nurse is assessing the patient's diet and notes the use of salt substitutes.When teaching the patient to avoid salt substitute,which rationale supports this teaching point?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Salt substitutes often contain potassium chloride, which can be harmful to patients with chronic renal failure who are receiving hemodialysis. Excessive potassium intake can potentially lead to hyperkalemia, which can cause heart arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest. Therefore, patients with chronic renal failure who receive hemodialysis should avoid salt substitutes.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Admitted with Hypertension