Question

Which medication is indicated for the client with hyperkalemia due to chronic glomerulonephritis? A. Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate) B. K-Dur (potassium chloride) C. Cephulac (lactulose) D. PhosLo (calcium acetate)

Short answer

Answer: A. Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate).

Step-by-step solution

Analyze the medication options

The first step is to analyze each medication option, its primary use, and whether it can be used to treat hyperkalemia. A. Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate) - This medication is a type of potassium-binding resin that is used to treat high levels of potassium in the blood. It works by exchanging sodium ions for potassium ions in the intestines, which allows the body to excrete excess potassium. B. K-Dur (potassium chloride) - This medication is a potassium supplement that is used to treat or prevent low levels of potassium in the blood. It should not be used to treat hyperkalemia, as it can cause potassium levels to become even higher. C. Cephulac (lactulose) - This medication is a type of laxative that is primarily used to treat constipation. It can also be used to treat high levels of ammonia in the blood in patients with liver disease. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels and should not be used to treat hyperkalemia. D. PhosLo (calcium acetate) - This medication is used to treat high levels of phosphate in the blood, which can be caused by kidney disease. It works by binding to phosphate in the intestines and preventing its absorption. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels and should not be used to treat hyperkalemia.

Select the appropriate medication for the client

Based on our analysis of each medication option, we can determine which medication is appropriate for the client with hyperkalemia due to chronic glomerulonephritis. Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate) is the best option for treating hyperkalemia in this case, as it functions as a potassium-binding resin that specifically targets high levels of potassium in the blood. The other medication options either do not have an effect on potassium levels or are designed to treat different conditions. Therefore, the correct answer is: A. Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate).