Final answer:
The priority assessment for hypokalemia is assessing for signs and symptoms, which is essential for determining the severity and guiding treatment. Subsequent monitoring of serum potassium levels and treatment with potassium supplements or diet modification follows based on assessment findings.
Step-by-step explanation:
The priority assessment for hypokalemia is to Assess for signs and symptoms of hypokalemia. It is critical to identify these clinical manifestations, as they can guide subsequent interventions and management of the condition. Signs include muscle weakness, respiratory distress, changes in heart rhythm, and alterations in mental status. Assessments can help prevent complications and determine if immediate intervention is needed, such as the administration of potassium.
After initial assessment, monitoring serum potassium levels becomes essential to guide treatment and to ensure that the potassium levels are correcting appropriately without leading to overcorrection and potential hyperkalemia. As hypokalemia can have serious consequences, such as cardiac arrest, it is important to treat the condition promptly. The treatment may involve administering potassium supplements and encouraging the intake of potassium-rich foods once the severity of hypokalemia is determined and the underlying cause is addressed.