Which laboratory value should be reported immediately for a client with acute renal failure?

Which laboratory value should be reported immediately for a client with acute renal failure?

• A. Blood urea nitrogen 50 mg/dL
• B. Serum potassium 6 mEq/L
• C. Venous blood pH 7.30
• D. Hemoglobin of 10.3 g/dL

Answer: (B)

In the context of acute renal failure, monitoring electrolyte levels, particularly potassium, is crucial due to the risk of hyperkalemia, which can have serious implications. A serum potassium level of 6 mEq/L is considered elevated and falls into a range that can lead to life-threatening cardiac complications, such as arrhythmias. This level necessitates immediate reporting and intervention to prevent potential cardiovascular issues. While elevated blood urea nitrogen indicates impaired renal function, and a low venous blood pH suggests acidosis, these conditions may not require immediate intervention in comparison to the critical risks associated with high potassium levels. A hemoglobin level of 10.3 g/dL, although lower than normal, does not pose the same immediate risk to life and may be addressed in a more routine manner. Hence, the serum potassium level is the most urgent laboratory value that should be reported for a client with acute renal failure.

In the context of acute renal failure, monitoring electrolyte levels, particularly potassium, is crucial due to the risk of hyperkalemia, which can have serious implications. A serum potassium level of 6 mEq/L is considered elevated and falls into a range that can lead to life-threatening cardiac complications, such as arrhythmias. This level necessitates immediate reporting and intervention to prevent potential cardiovascular issues.

While elevated blood urea nitrogen indicates impaired renal function, and a low venous blood pH suggests acidosis, these conditions may not require immediate intervention in comparison to the critical risks associated with high potassium levels. A hemoglobin level of 10.3 g/dL, although lower than normal, does not pose the same immediate risk to life and may be addressed in a more routine manner. Hence, the serum potassium level is the most urgent laboratory value that should be reported for a client with acute renal failure.