A nurse is reviewing a client's laboratory values and discovers the client has a serum potassium of 6.2 mEq/L. Which of the following interventions should the nurse anticipate?

Choice A reason: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) is used to treat hyperkalemia by promoting potassium excretion through the gastrointestinal tract. A potassium level of 6.2 mEq/L is above the normal range (3.5–5.0 mEq/L) and poses a risk for cardiac dysrhythmias. This intervention helps lower serum potassium safely. Choice B reason: Initiating an IV potassium infusion would worsen hyperkalemia and is contraindicated. Potassium infusions are used to treat hypokalemia, not elevated potassium levels. Choice C reason: Potassium-sparing diuretics, such as spironolactone, retain potassium and would exacerbate hyperkalemia. They are contraindicated in this situation. Choice D reason: Bananas are high in potassium and should be avoided in clients with hyperkalemia. Encouraging their consumption would increase serum potassium further and increase the risk of cardiac complications.