Following unilateral adrenalectomy, the nurse would assess for hyperkalemia as indicated by which symptom?

• A. Muscle weakness
• B. Tremors
• C. Diaphoresis
• D. Constipation

Answer: (A)

Hyperkalemia after removing an adrenal gland relates to reduced aldosterone activity, since aldosterone helps the kidneys excrete potassium. When potassium builds up outside the cells, it changes the electrical properties of muscle cells, making them less excitable and leading to muscle weakness. This is a classic and early sign to look for in the postoperative period.

Tremors aren’t a typical indicator of high potassium; they can come from other causes. Diaphoresis is a nonspecific autonomic response and not a hallmark of hyperkalemia. Constipation isn’t a direct sign of elevated potassium either. So, muscle weakness best reflects the effect of excess potassium on muscle function after adrenal removal.