Question

A patient is being administered 15 g sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) orally for hyperkalemia. Which intervention should the nurse perform?

A. Observe the patient for iron overload.
B. Inform the patient that constipation is an expected side effect.
C. Provide magnesium-containing antacids.
D. Report peaked T waves in electrocardiogram (ECG)

Answer 1

The nurse should report peaked T waves in electrocardiogram (ECG) for a patient being administered sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) orally for hyperkalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The correct intervention for a patient being administered sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) orally for hyperkalemia is to report peaked T waves in electrocardiogram (ECG).

Hyperkalemia is characterized by elevated potassium levels in the blood, which can lead to impairment of skeletal muscles, the nervous system, and the heart. One of the signs of hyperkalemia is peaked T waves on an ECG. This indicates abnormal electrical activity in the heart and should be reported to the healthcare provider.

Therefore, the nurse should closely monitor the patient's ECG for any changes and promptly report any peaked T waves.