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A patient is taking triamterene as part of a multidrug regimen for congestive heart failure. What should the nurse assess when the patient has a potassium level of 6.8 mEq/L?

Explanation

• Triamterene (Dyrenium) is a potassium-sparing diuretic given in CHF for fluid volume overload 

• An elevated potassium level can cause lethal arrhythmias. The nurse should evaluate the patient's telemetry monitor readings and notify the physician of any abnormalities.  An EKG may be ordered by the provider as well as medications to decrease the potassium level (such as kayexalate) 

• Normal potassium range is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L 

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