Question

the nurse is reviewing the chart for a client with clostridium difficile (c difficile) infection. the nurse would contact the physician regarding which priority finding? laboratory results test and results reference range potassium 2.9 meq/l 3.5 - 5.0 meq/l rationale, strategy, reference, tip answer options 1. two watery stools in 1 hour 2. heart rate 102 beats per minute 3. serum potassium 2.9 meq/l 4. the client reports generalized abdominal pain

Explanation:

Potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is outside the normal reference range of 3.5 - 5.0 mEq/L. Hypokalemia can cause serious cardiac and neuromuscular complications. While other symptoms are concerning, abnormal potassium is a critical finding.

Answer:

1. Serum potassium 2.9 mEq/L