The nurse is assessing a patient that underwent a unilateral adrenalectomy. To assess for hyperkalemia, the nurse should be alert for:
Explanation
• Hyperkalemia may result due to the inability of the adrenal gland to secrete aldosterone, a potassium-wasting hormone
• Signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia include muscle weakness, arrhythmias, bradycardia, diarrhea and nausea
• Tremors, hypoventilation, and tachycardia are not common signs of hyperkalemia