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    Ati 0926 Beg Med Surg Proctored Exam Cms Equivalent

    A nurse is preparing to administer potassium chloride (KCL) to a client who is receiving diuretic therapy. The nurse reviews the client's serum potassium level results and discovers the client's potassium level is 3.2 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Hold the prescribed dose and notify the provider of the serum potassium level: Holding the dose would be inappropriate because the client’s potassium level is low. Potassium supplementation is indicated to correct the hypokalemia and prevent complications. B. Give the ordered KCL as prescribed: A potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L indicates mild hypokalemia. Administering the prescribed potassium chloride helps restore normal serum levels and supports cardiac and neuromuscular function, making this the appropriate action. C. Omit the KCL dose and document that it was not given: Omitting the dose would leave the hypokalemia untreated and put the client at risk for worsening muscle weakness, cardiac arrhythmias, and potential respiratory compromise. Documentation alone does not address the clinical need. D. Call the lab to verify the client’s results: Verification is not necessary when the value is consistent with the client’s condition and treatment plan. The result of 3.2 mEq/L clearly indicates hypokalemia, and prompt supplementation is the correct intervention.

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