Nutrition Care for Individuals and GroupsDifficulty 3/5
A patient on haemodialysis has a serum potassium of 6.1 mEq/L. Which dietary change is most appropriate?
- ARestrict fluid intake to reduce the concentration of serum potassium
- BIncrease dietary phosphorus to balance the electrolyte disturbance
- CIncrease protein intake to replace amino acids lost during dialysis
- DLimit high-potassium foods and review salt substitutes being used
Show answer and rationale
Correct: D. Hyperkalaemia in dialysis is managed by limiting potassium-rich foods and identifying hidden sources — potassium chloride salt substitutes are a frequent and overlooked contributor.
- C — Protein needs are high in dialysis but do not address potassium.
- A — Fluid restriction manages volume, not potassium load.
- B — Increasing phosphorus worsens mineral and bone disorder.