Health assessment · practice question
A 74-year-old client on a medical-surgical unit is being evaluated for nursing care related to general survey. The nurse reviews this trend: potassium trending from 4.0 to 5.6 mEq/L with muscle weakness. Which interpretation and action are most appropriate?
Multiple choiceEasynclex-rn-bsnnclex-validatednclex-2026health-assessment
Answer and explanation
Correct answer
D. Interpret the trend in context, compare it with baseline or benchmarks, and take the safest indicated action.
Why
Trend questions require comparison with baseline, symptoms, risk, and benchmarks. Safe nursing action begins before a preventable event becomes critical.
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