Question

A client with vitamin deficiencies is admitted to the acute care setting due to signs of dehydration. The nurse's assessment of laboratory values reveals a potassium of \(2.9 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\). Which dietary selection would be best for this client? A. Banana B. Apricot C. Spinach D. Artichoke

Short answer

Answer: Spinach

Step-by-step solution

1. Identify normal potassium levels

First, we should identify what the normal range for potassium levels should be. Potassium levels should usually range between \(3.5 \text{ and } 5.0 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\) in the blood. In this case, the client's potassium level of \(2.9 \mathrm{mEq} / \mathrm{L}\) is lower than the normal range, indicating a potassium deficiency.

2. Determine potassium content in each food option

Next, we need to find the potassium content for each of the provided food options to determine which would be the best choice for our client. The potassium content per 100g for each food is as follows: A. Banana: \(358 \mathrm{mg}\) B. Apricot: \(259 \mathrm{mg}\) C. Spinach: \(558 \mathrm{mg}\) D. Artichoke: \(370 \mathrm{mg}\)

3. Compare potassium content of food options

Now, we can compare the potassium content of all four food options to determine which has the highest potassium content: - Banana: \(358 \mathrm{mg}\) - Apricot: \(259 \mathrm{mg}\) - Spinach: \(558 \mathrm{mg}\) - Artichoke: \(370 \mathrm{mg}\)

4. Identify the best dietary selection

Based on the comparison of potassium content in the given food options, we can determine that the best dietary selection for the client with a potassium deficiency and signs of dehydration is option C, Spinach, because it has the highest potassium content with \(558 \mathrm{mg}\) per 100g. Proper intake of spinach can help increase the client's potassium levels and address their nutritional deficiency.