Final answer:
Nasogastric suctioning can put clients at risk for hypokalemia due to the loss of gastric acid. The removal of gastric acid through suctioning can lead to a decrease in hydrogen ions and chloride ions, which are necessary for the absorption of potassium. This can result in a decrease in potassium levels in the body.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nasogastric suctioning can put clients at risk for hypokalemia due to the loss of gastric acid. When gastric acid is removed from the stomach through suctioning, it can lead to a decrease in hydrogen ions and chloride ions, which are necessary for the absorption of potassium. The loss of gastric acid can result in a decrease in potassium levels in the body, leading to hypokalemia.