When treating acute renal failure, which action should be prioritized?

Monitoring potassium levels should be prioritized when treating acute renal failure because the kidneys are primarily responsible for maintaining the balance of electrolytes in the body, including potassium. In acute renal failure, the kidneys may be unable to excrete potassium effectively, leading to hyperkalemia, which can have serious cardiac implications, including arrhythmias and even cardiac arrest. Regular monitoring allows for timely intervention, such as adjusting medications or initiating therapies to lower potassium levels, thus preventing potentially life-threatening complications.

The other actions, while important in the overall management of a patient with acute renal failure, do not take precedence over monitoring potassium levels. For instance, anticipating diuretics may be relevant in cases where renal function is somewhat preserved, but it is not the immediate priority during the acute phase. Establishing an airway is critical in situations where the patient's breathing or consciousness is compromised, which is not specific to renal failure. Providing pain relief is important for patient comfort, but it should not overshadow the need for vigilant monitoring of potassium and other vital signs in the context of acute renal dysfunction.