A nurse is caring for a patient with renal failure on a medical surgical floor. The patient's potassium level is 6.0 mEq/L on serum laboratory testing. The nurse is aware that this condition may be treated in which of the following ways?

Explanation

•Normal serum potassium levels are 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.

•A potassium level of 6.0 mEq/L or higher is called hyperkalemia.

•Potassium will be restricted when hyperkalemia is present, so no potassium supplements, foods high in potassium, or intravenous fluids containing potassium will be given.

•Regular insulin that is given intravenously can reduce serum potassium levels and insulin will be given with dextrose 50% to prevent hypoglycemia (low blood glucose levels).

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