As soon as you get a chance, you review C.W.'s admission laboratory results
Laboratory Results
Sodium 138 mEq/L
Potassium 6.9 mEq/L
BUN 90 mg/dL
Creatinine 2.1 mg/dL
WBC 16,000/mm3
Hgb 8.4 g/dL
Hct 25%
PT 23.4 seconds
INR 4.8
After examination of the lab results, are there any concerns with C.W.'s electrolyte levels?
Explain your answer.
In view of the previous laboratory results, what diagnostic test will be performed and why?
C.W.'s potassium level reflects hyperkalemia (above 5 mEq/L), which, in the presence of digoxin, may
lead to serious ventricular dysrhythmias. Keep in mind that hyperkalemia may be present in later
stages of hypovolemia and that the fluid resuscitation will dilute the potassium.
An ECG should be obtained because the patient is on digoxin and has elevated potassium.
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