ATI 110 Fundamentals Exam 1 Related

Review ATI 110 Fundamentals Exam 1 related questions and content

A nurse on a medical unit is reviewing the laboratory reports for a client. Which of the following laboratory values is the priority to report to the provider?

  • A. Potassium level 3 mEq/L
  • B. BUN 9.5 mg/dL
  • C. Creatinine 0.4 mg/dL
  • D. Sodium 135 mEq/L
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Potassium level 3 mEq/L. A potassium level of 3 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), indicating hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, it is crucial to report this abnormal potassium level promptly to the provider for further evaluation and intervention.
B: BUN 9.5 mg/dL - This is within the normal range (7-20 mg/dL) and does not require immediate intervention.
C: Creatinine 0.4 mg/dL - This is within the normal range (0.6-1.2 mg/dL) and does not indicate an urgent issue.
D: Sodium 135 mEq/L - This is within the normal range (135-145 mEq/L) and does not require immediate action.