Question

A nurse is assessing a client who is receiving hydrochlorothiazide and notes that the client is confused and lethargic. Which of the following lab values should the nurse report to the provider?

A) Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
B) Potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L
C) Blood glucose level of 120 mg/dL
D) Creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL

Answer 1

The nurse should report the Potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L to the provider, as it is at the lower end of the normal range and the patient exhibits symptoms of hypokalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should report a Potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L to the provider. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can lead to electrolyte imbalances, specifically hypokalemia (abnormally decreased blood levels of potassium). A potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L is at the lower end of the normal range, which is typically 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L, and the patient's symptoms of confusion and lethargy are indicative of possible hypokalemia. Whereas values for sodium, blood glucose, and creatinine are within their respective normal ranges: sodium at 140 mEq/L, blood glucose at 120 mg/dL, and creatinine at 1.0 mg/dL.