Question

A client's potassium level is 2.8 mEq/L. The nurse should identify that the potassium level is below the expected reference range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?

a. Administer potassium-rich foods.
b. Report the finding to the provider.
c. Encourage increased fluid intake.
d. Document the finding in the chart.

Answer 1

The nurse should report the client's low potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L to the provider immediately as it is below the normal range, and this may warrant medical intervention. Whilst waiting for instructions, the nurse could suggest potassium-rich foods and should document the finding in the client's chart.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client's potassium level of 2.8 mEq/L is indeed below the expected reference range of 3.5 to 5 mEq/L. The nurse should take multiple actions in this situation:

• Report the finding to the provider: This is a critical step as the client may require medical intervention to correct the hypokalemia.
• Administer potassium-rich foods: To help raise potassium levels, the nurse may recommend or provide foods high in potassium like bananas, oranges, or apricots.
• Document the finding in the chart: It's essential to maintain accurate medical records, and documenting this abnormal lab result is necessary for ongoing patient care.

Encouraging increased fluid intake is generally not specific to correcting low serum potassium and may not be the appropriate action without the provider's recommendation. In severe cases of hypokalemia, the provider may order intravenous (IV) potassium replacement.