Question

The nurse instructs a client at risk for hypokalemia from thiazide diuretic therapy about foods that are high in potassium. The nurse determines that there is a need for further teaching if the client states that which foods are high in potassium and should be included in the diet plan? Select all that apply.

1.Eggs
2.Beef
3.Pork
4.Raisins
5.White bread with butter

Answer 1

The client needs further education on potassium-rich foods if they include eggs and white bread with butter in their diet plan for hypokalemia management, as these foods do not have high potassium content. Instead, foods like beef, pork, and raisins, along with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and certain animal proteins, should be emphasized due to their high potassium levels.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse has discussed with a client foods high in potassium which should be included in a diet plan, especially when at risk for hypokalemia due to thiazide diuretic therapy. The client needs further teaching if they state that they should include foods such as eggs, white bread with butter, as these are not high in potassium. Foods that are rich in potassium and should be encouraged include beef, pork, and raisins. Other great sources of potassium are potatoes, bananas, oranges, apricots, plums, leafy greens, tomatoes, lima beans, avocado, fish, poultry, and whole grains.

For those managing hypokalemia, it is critical to focus on potassium-rich foods, clearly understanding which foods to emphasize and which to avoid or consume in moderation. A balanced intake of nutrients like magnesium, calcium, potassium, and bicarbonate, in contrast to sodium, contributes positively to metabolic regulation and blood pressure control. This nutritional strategy is in line with the principles of the DASH diet, which is effective in managing blood pressure and metabolic syndromes.