Final answer:
A decrease in urine output for a patient receiving IV and oral potassium suggests potential kidney issues, requiring the nurse to monitor vital signs, blood potassium levels, and other symptoms of hyperkalemia, while also managing fluid balances and communicating with the physician.
Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient receiving intravenous (IV) and oral potassium suffers a decrease in urine output, it can indicate kidney dysfunction, which is concerning because the kidneys are responsible for excreting excess potassium. The nurse's responsibilities in this situation involve closely monitoring the patient's vital signs, conducting regular blood tests to check electrolyte levels, especially potassium levels, and assessing the patient for signs of hyperkalemia, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, or heart arrhythmias. The nurse should also measure and record fluid intake and output, administer medications as ordered, and communicate any concerns to the physician. Prompt action is essential to prevent potentially life-threatening complications like cardiac arrest due to high potassium levels in the bloodstream.