Medical Surgical HESI 2023 Related

Review Medical Surgical HESI 2023 related questions and content

A client with hyperkalemia is being treated in the emergency department. Which medication should the nurse prepare to administer?

  • A. Potassium chloride
  • B. Calcium gluconate
  • C. Magnesium sulfate
  • D. Sodium bicarbonate
Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B, Calcium gluconate. In hyperkalemia, where potassium levels are elevated, calcium gluconate is administered to stabilize the myocardial cell membrane and protect the heart from potential arrhythmias. Potassium chloride (choice A) would worsen the condition by further increasing potassium levels. Magnesium sulfate (choice C) is not the primary treatment for hyperkalemia. Sodium bicarbonate (choice D) is used in metabolic acidosis, not specifically for hyperkalemia.