Before initiating IV fluids containing potassium for a 5-month-old, what should the nurse check?

Before initiating IV fluids containing potassium for a 5-month-old, it is crucial to check the serum BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen) and creatinine levels. This is because potassium is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and any impairment in renal function can lead to hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels in the blood). Assessing BUN and creatinine provides valuable insights into the child's kidney function. If the kidneys are not functioning properly, administering potassium could exacerbate the situation and potentially lead to dangerous complications.

Checking the current blood sugar level is important in a pediatric patient, but it is not directly related to potassium administration. Monitoring the frequency of vomiting can provide context regarding fluid and electrolyte loss, but it does not assess kidney function. Lastly, the appearance of the stool can indicate gastrointestinal issues or dehydration but does not provide pertinent information about the child's ability to handle potassium effectively. Therefore, evaluating serum BUN and creatinine levels is a critical step before administering potassium-containing IV fluids to ensure patient safety.