NCLEX-RNReduction of Risk PotentialEasy
A nurse reviews morning laboratory results for four clients. Which result requires the nurse to notify the health care provider immediately?
- APotassium 6.2 mEq/L
- BGlucose 112 mg/dL
- CCalcium 9.4 mg/dL
- DSodium 138 mEq/L
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. Potassium 6.2 mEq/L
Normal potassium is 3.5–5.0 mEq/L; a level of 6.2 mEq/L indicates severe hyperkalemia, which can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias (peaked T waves, widened QRS) and requires immediate provider notification and treatment. The other values are within or near normal limits.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. Glucose 112 mg/dL is only mildly elevated and not an emergency.
- C. Calcium 9.4 mg/dL is within the normal range of 9.0–10.5 mg/dL.
- D. Sodium 138 mEq/L is within the normal range of 135–145 mEq/L.
Hyperkalemia
Serum potassium above 5.0 mEq/L that can cause life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias.
- Normal K+ = 3.5–5.0 mEq/L
- ECG changes: peaked T waves, widened QRS, flattened P waves
- Treated with calcium gluconate, insulin/glucose, kayexalate, dialysis
Memory trick: 'Peaked T, call the MD' — hyperkalemia peaks the heart's rhythm.