A nurse is reviewing a client's lab results and noticing a pattern of rising potassium levels. What is the most appropriate step the nurse should take first?

Rationale: A. Administering a medication without a prescription is outside the nurse’s scope of practice. In addition, not all diuretics lower potassium; some, such as potassium-sparing diuretics, can actually worsen hyperkalemia. Interventions must be based on assessment and provider orders. B. The nurse’s first action is assessment and critical thinking. Rising potassium levels may be caused by renal impairment, medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, potassium-sparing diuretics), tissue breakdown, metabolic acidosis, or hemolysis of the specimen. Identifying possible causes helps the nurse determine urgency, accuracy of the result, and appropriate next steps, including whether the provider needs to be notified immediately. C. This is incorrect as a first step. Although hyperkalemia can be dangerous, the nurse should first assess and analyze the data, including trends, client symptoms (muscle weakness, ECG changes), renal function, and medications. If findings suggest imminent risk, then provider notification becomes the next priority. D. Documentation is important, but it does not address the client’s immediate safety needs. Assessment and clinical judgment must occur before documentation alone.