RN HESI Exit Exam Related

Review RN HESI Exit Exam related questions and content

A client with chronic kidney disease (CKD) is admitted with hyperkalemia. Which laboratory value requires immediate intervention?

  • A. Serum potassium of 6.5 mEq/L
  • B. Serum sodium of 135 mEq/L
  • C. Serum creatinine of 2.0 mg/dL
  • D. Blood glucose of 150 mg/dL
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: A serum potassium level of 6.5 mEq/L is most concerning in a client with CKD as it indicates severe hyperkalemia, requiring immediate intervention. Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Serum sodium levels within the normal range (135 mEq/L) are not immediately concerning. Serum creatinine of 2.0 mg/dL may indicate impaired kidney function but does not require immediate intervention for hyperkalemia. Blood glucose of 150 mg/dL is within normal limits and does not directly correlate with hyperkalemia in this scenario.