Final answer:
In the case of a client with a potassium level of 3.0, care must be taken when administering Lasix and spironolactone due to their opposing effects on potassium levels.
Step-by-step explanation:
If your client's potassium level (K+) is 3.0 mEq/L and both Lasix (furosemide) and spironolactone are ordered, it is crucial to proceed with caution.
Lasix is a potent loop diuretic that can cause a significant loss of potassium from the body, which could further decrease the patient's potassium levels, exacerbating hypokalemia.
Conversely, spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which may help maintain potassium levels.
Because the patient is already showing signs of hypokalemia, it is important to carefully monitor their potassium levels while administering these medications, and to consider potassium supplementation if appropriate.
For example, in an emergency room setting, if a physician orders an intravenous (IV) delivery of 100 mL of 0.5% KCl for a patient with low potassium levels, an aide may indeed retrieve this specific formulation from the supply cabinet to address the patient's immediate needs.