Answer: In the case of hyperkalemia (elevated levels of potassium in the blood), the nurse may anticipate administering treatments and interventions to lower the potassium levels in the patient's blood. Some of the common interventions and medications for hyperkalemia include:
Calcium gluconate or calcium chloride: These medications can be administered intravenously to stabilize the cardiac membrane and protect the heart from the effects of elevated potassium levels.
Sodium bicarbonate: It can help shift potassium back into the cells and reduce the concentration of potassium in the bloodstream.
Insulin and glucose: Insulin helps move potassium from the bloodstream into cells, and glucose is often given with insulin to prevent hypoglycemia.
Loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide): These medications can increase potassium excretion through urine.