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, which 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 electrolyte imbalance should the nurse suspect?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The symptoms of fatigued muscles, nausea and anorexia, irritability, and diminished deep tendon reflexes suggest a deficiency in potassium levels. Additionally, the serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L is below the normal range of 3.5-5.0 mEq/L. While the serum chloride level is elevated, it is not likely the cause of the client's symptoms. The serum sodium level is within normal range, so the client does not have hypernatremia.

A Nurse Assesses a Newly Admitted Client and Notes Fatigued