A nurse is caring for a patient who has the following laboratory results: Potassium 2.4 mEq/L Magnesium 1.8 mEq/L Calcium 3.5 mEq/L Sodium 144 mEq/L Which assessment does the nurse complete first?

Choice A reason: Electrocardiography (ECG) should be performed first because the patient has severe hypokalemia (2.4 mEq/L), which can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. ECG monitoring helps detect changes such as U waves, flattened T waves, and prolonged QT intervals. Choice B reason: Grip strength may be affected by electrolyte imbalances, particularly potassium and calcium, but it is not the priority assessment when cardiac risk is present. Choice C reason: Bowel sounds may be diminished in electrolyte disturbances, but this is not the most urgent concern compared to cardiac monitoring. Choice D reason: Depth of respirations may be altered in severe electrolyte imbalances, especially with calcium or magnesium abnormalities, but the potassium level poses a more immediate cardiac threat.