RN Medical Surgical Hesi Exam Related

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A client with acute renal injury (AKI) weighs 110.3 pounds (50 kg) and has a potassium level of 6.7 mEq/L (6.7 mmol/L) is admitted to the hospital. Which prescribed medication should the nurse administer first?

  • A. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate 15 grams by mouth.
  • B. Sevelamer one tablet by mouth.
  • C. Calcium acetate one tablet by mouth.
  • D. Epoetin alfa, recombinant 2,500 units subcutaneously.
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is a medication that binds to excess potassium in the gastrointestinal tract and removes it from the body through feces. It is used to treat hyperkalemia, which is a high level of potassium in the blood. Hyperkalemia can cause cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness, and it is a common complication of AKI. Therefore, this medication should be administered first to lower the potassium level and prevent life-threatening complications.