Free BCEN Certified Emergency Nurse (CEN) Practice Question

Having a serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia. The BEST treatment for hypokalemia is the administration of potassium replacement to correct the potassium level and prevent potential cardiac complications. Oral potassium is preferred if the patient is not severely symptomatic and can tolerate oral medications. IV potassium may also be an option but comes with a higher risk and must be administered carefully to avoid causing hyperkalemia or infusion-related injuries. Dietary changes are too slow to address acute hypokalemia, and saline infusions are typically used to treat dehydration and may dilute an already low potassium level.