HESI Medical Surgical Practice Exam Related

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The client with chronic renal failure is receiving hemodialysis. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor closely?

  • A. Hemoglobin level.
  • B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level.
  • C. Serum potassium level.
  • D. Creatinine level.
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The serum potassium level should be monitored closely in clients undergoing hemodialysis due to the risk of hyperkalemia. Hemodialysis is used to remove waste products and excess electrolytes like potassium from the blood. Monitoring potassium levels is crucial because an imbalance can lead to serious cardiac complications, making it the priority value to monitor in this scenario. Monitoring hemoglobin levels (choice A) is important for anemia assessment in chronic renal failure but is not directly related to hemodialysis. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels (choice B) and creatinine levels (choice D) are commonly monitored in renal function tests but are not the top priority for monitoring in a client undergoing hemodialysis.