HESI Fundamental Practice Exam Related

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A client with chronic kidney disease is being assessed. Which laboratory value would be most concerning?

  • A. Serum creatinine of 3.0 mg/dL
  • B. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) of 45 mg/dL
  • C. Serum potassium of 6.5 mEq/L
  • D. Hemoglobin of 10 g/dL
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In a client with chronic kidney disease, an elevated serum potassium level (hyperkalemia) is the most concerning finding. Hyperkalemia can lead to life-threatening cardiac dysrhythmias due to its effect on the electrical conduction system of the heart. Monitoring and managing serum potassium levels are crucial in patients with chronic kidney disease to prevent serious complications. While elevated serum creatinine (Choice A) and Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) levels (Choice B) indicate impaired kidney function, hyperkalemia poses an immediate risk of cardiac complications. Hemoglobin levels (Choice D) are typically lower in chronic kidney disease due to decreased erythropoietin production, but they do not present an immediate life-threatening risk like hyperkalemia.