What is the priority nursing action for a client with acute kidney injury and a serum potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L?

In the context of a client with acute kidney injury and a notably high serum potassium level of 6.4 mEq/L, the priority nursing action is to call the healthcare provider. A serum potassium level above 6.0 mEq/L indicates hyperkalemia, which can lead to severe complications such as cardiac dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and even cardiac arrest. Therefore, immediate communication with the healthcare provider is critical to initiate appropriate interventions, such as potassium-lowering medications or other treatments that may be necessary to address the dangerously elevated potassium level.

Timely notification to the healthcare team ensures that the client receives the necessary medical attention and monitoring, which may include emergency interventions if the potassium level continues to rise or if the patient shows signs of cardiac distress. This action reflects the priority of patient safety and the urgency of resolving life-threatening electrolyte imbalances associated with acute kidney injury.