In a patient receiving sodium polystyrene sulfonate for hyperkalemia, which laboratory value indicates a therapeutic response?

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A potassium level of 4.8 indicates a therapeutic response in a patient receiving sodium polystyrene sulfonate for hyperkalemia. Sodium polystyrene sulfonate is a cation-exchange resin that works by binding potassium in the gastrointestinal tract, which helps to lower elevated potassium levels in the body.

In normal physiological conditions, a potassium level of 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L is considered within the normal range. A potassium level of 4.8 falls comfortably within this range, suggesting that the treatment has been effective in reducing hyperkalemia. Monitoring the serum potassium level is crucial in managing hyperkalemia to avoid serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias.

Other laboratory values listed do not directly reflect the therapeutic response to sodium polystyrene sulfonate specifically for hyperkalemia. While creatinine, sodium, and calcium levels may also be important in assessing overall kidney function and electrolyte balance, the primary goal of sodium polystyrene sulfonate therapy is to specifically reduce the potassium level in patients experiencing hyperkalemia.

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