Which laboratory value should alert the nurse as an emergency?

Which laboratory value should alert the nurse as an emergency?

• A. Sodium 134 mEq/L
• B. Serum potassium 2.7 mEq/L
• C. WBC 11,000 mcL
• D. Calcium 9.5 mg/dL

Answer: (B)

A serum potassium level of 2.7 mEq/L is significantly lower than the normal range, which typically falls between 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Such a low potassium level, known as hypokalemia, can have serious cardiovascular implications, including the risk of arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and potential respiratory failure due to paralysis of respiratory muscles. It is critical for the nurse to recognize that this value constitutes a medical emergency, requiring immediate intervention to correct the hypokalemia and prevent life-threatening complications. In contrast, sodium levels at 134 mEq/L, while lower than normal, do not usually present an acute emergency unless there are accompanying clinical symptoms or a rapid change in the values. A WBC count of 11,000 mcL is also within a range that could be seen in various conditions but does not inherently suggest an emergency situation on its own. Similarly, a calcium level of 9.5 mg/dL is considered normal and does not require immediate attention.

A serum potassium level of 2.7 mEq/L is significantly lower than the normal range, which typically falls between 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Such a low potassium level, known as hypokalemia, can have serious cardiovascular implications, including the risk of arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and potential respiratory failure due to paralysis of respiratory muscles. It is critical for the nurse to recognize that this value constitutes a medical emergency, requiring immediate intervention to correct the hypokalemia and prevent life-threatening complications.

In contrast, sodium levels at 134 mEq/L, while lower than normal, do not usually present an acute emergency unless there are accompanying clinical symptoms or a rapid change in the values. A WBC count of 11,000 mcL is also within a range that could be seen in various conditions but does not inherently suggest an emergency situation on its own. Similarly, a calcium level of 9.5 mg/dL is considered normal and does not require immediate attention.