A nurse assesses a newly admitted client and notes fatigued muscles, reports of nausea and anorexia, irritability, and diminished deep tendon reflexes. The nurse reviews the client's laboratory reports that reveal a serum chloride level of 92 mEq/L, a serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L, and a serum sodium level of 135 mEq/L. Which treatment should the nurse anticipate for this electrolyte imbalance?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The client's potassium level is low (hypokalemia) and this can cause muscle weakness and diminished deep tendon reflexes. The treatment for hypokalemia is replacement therapy with potassium chloride. The other electrolyte levels are within the normal range; therefore, treatment with sodium bicarbonate or replacement therapy with sodium and chloride is not indicated. Changing the infusion to 5% dextrose in water would not correct the electrolyte imbalance.

A Nurse Assesses a Newly Admitted Client and Notes Fatigued