The client has a serum potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L. What is a priority intervention?

A. Administer potassium chloride IV push: Administering potassium as an IV push is extremely dangerous because rapid infusion can cause life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, including ventricular fibrillation or cardiac arrest. Potassium replacement must be administered slowly and diluted according to protocol, not as a push. B. Monitor cardiac rhythm: Hypokalemia (K⁺ 3.1 mEq/L) increases the risk of cardiac dysrhythmias, including premature ventricular contractions, atrial fibrillation, and ventricular tachycardia. Continuous cardiac monitoring allows early detection of arrhythmias and guides safe interventions, making this the priority action. C. Administer a diuretic: Administering a diuretic would further lower potassium levels, worsening hypokalemia and increasing the risk of dysrhythmias. This intervention is contraindicated in this situation and could be harmful. D. Range of motion exercises: While maintaining mobility is generally beneficial, range of motion exercises do not address the immediate risk of hypokalemia-induced cardiac complications. Cardiac monitoring and safe potassium replacement take priority over non-urgent mobility activities.