Basic Adult Health Care NCLEX Questions Related

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A client who is to receive general anesthesia has a serum potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L. What should be the nurse's first response?

  • A. Call the surgeon.
  • B. Send the client to surgery.
  • C. Make a note on the front of the chart.
  • D. Notify the anesthesiologist.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: A potassium level of 5.8 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which can cause cardiac complications under general anesthesia. Notifying the anesthesiologist first ensures prompt evaluation and management to ensure patient safety.