A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who takes furosemide and has a serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L. Which of the following foods should the nurse instruct the client to include in his daily diet?
Explanation & Rationale
A. Cabbage: Cabbage is low in potassium and would not significantly help correct hypokalemia. While it is nutritious, it does not address the client’s immediate need to increase serum potassium. B. Bananas: Bananas are rich in potassium, making them an excellent dietary choice for a client with hypokalemia. Including potassium-rich foods helps restore electrolyte balance, supports cardiac function, and reduces the risk of complications associated with low potassium levels, such as arrhythmias and muscle weakness. C. Cheddar cheese: Cheese is low in potassium and high in sodium and fat. While it can provide protein and calcium, it is not beneficial for correcting hypokalemia and should not be relied on for potassium supplementation. D. White rice: White rice is very low in potassium and does not contribute significantly to increasing serum potassium. It can be part of a balanced diet but does not address the client’s electrolyte deficiency.