Question

the nurse is obtaining the intershift report for a group of assigned clients. which assigned client would the nurse monitor closely for signs of hyperkalemia?
answer options
1 a client with ulcerative colitis
2 a client with cushings syndrome
3 a client admitted 6 hours ago with a 40% burn injury
4 a client who has a history of long - term laxative abuse

Explanation:

• Ulcerative colitis: Typically causes diarrhea which can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium) due to excessive potassium loss, not hyperkalemia (high potassium).
• Cushing's syndrome: Is associated with increased cortisol levels. Cortisol promotes potassium excretion, so clients with Cushing's syndrome are more likely to have hypokalemia.
• Burn injury (especially in the first 24 - 48 hours): When there is significant tissue damage (like in a large - area burn, 40% in this case), intracellular potassium is released into the extracellular fluid. In the initial stages (within the first 6 - 72 hours depending on the severity), this can lead to hyperkalemia.
• Long - term laxative abuse: Usually causes diarrhea. Diarrhea can result in potassium loss and hypokalemia.

Answer:

1. A client admitted 6 hours ago with a 40% burn injury