Which nursing action is appropriate for a client with hypokalemia?

Which nursing action is appropriate for a client with hypokalemia?

• A. Administer potassium chloride IV push when available
• B. Monitor ECG continuously and ensure rate of potassium infusion is not rapid
• C. Restrict fluids to concentrate electrolytes
• D. Encourage vigorous exercise

Answer: (B)

Low potassium affects how the heart conducts electricity, so the priority is to replace it safely while watching the heart’s rhythm. Continuous ECG monitoring helps catch any arrhythmias early as potassium is corrected, and keeping the potassium infusion at a safe, slow rate prevents dangerous spikes in potassium that could cause cardiac arrest. Potassium chloride given as an IV push is dangerous and should not be done; it must be given by infusion through a pump at a controlled rate. Restricting fluids to concentrate electrolytes isn’t an appropriate treatment for hypokalemia, and vigorous exercise doesn’t address the electrolyte deficiency.

Low potassium affects how the heart conducts electricity, so the priority is to replace it safely while watching the heart’s rhythm. Continuous ECG monitoring helps catch any arrhythmias early as potassium is corrected, and keeping the potassium infusion at a safe, slow rate prevents dangerous spikes in potassium that could cause cardiac arrest. Potassium chloride given as an IV push is dangerous and should not be done; it must be given by infusion through a pump at a controlled rate. Restricting fluids to concentrate electrolytes isn’t an appropriate treatment for hypokalemia, and vigorous exercise doesn’t address the electrolyte deficiency.