Question

The nurse is preparing to administer potassium to the client with hypokalemia. The best liquid for the nurse to dilute the potassium in is: A. Cranberry juice B. Prune juice C. Tomato juice D. Chocolate milk

Short answer

Answer: The best liquid for a nurse to dilute potassium for a patient with hypokalemia is tomato juice. This is because it has a high potassium content and is suitable for patient consumption without adverse side effects.

Step-by-step solution

Define the problem and criteria

The problem asks to identify the best liquid for diluting potassium for a client with hypokalemia. The criteria for the best liquid must have enough potassium content to help increase the patient's potassium levels, and it should be easy for the patient to consume.

Analyze each option

A) Cranberry juice: Cranberry juice has a lower potassium content compared to other options. Also, it is acidic and may not be suitable for all patients. B) Prune juice: Prune juice has a high potassium content and could be helpful in raising the potassium levels. However, it is known for its strong laxative effect, which may not be ideal for the patient. C) Tomato juice: Tomato juice has a high potassium content and is more suitable for patients since it doesn't have an adverse laxative effect. D) Chocolate milk: While chocolate milk may have some potassium, it is not a good source of potassium and is high in sugars.

Identify the best choice

Based on the analysis of each option, the best liquid for the nurse to dilute potassium in is: C) Tomato juice. This is due to its high potassium content and suitability for patient consumption without adverse side effects.