Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

The kidneys play a crucial role in maintaining potassium balance in the body, primarily by excreting the majority of potassium. They filter potassium from the blood, reabsorbing a portion of it back into the bloodstream as needed based on the body’s current potassium levels, activity, and dietary intake. This regulatory process ensures that excess potassium is excreted in urine, preventing hyperkalemia, which can have serious health implications.

While the kidneys do absorb some potassium during filtration, their primary function regarding potassium maintenance is excretion. This distinguishes the correct answer. Furthermore, the kidneys do not produce potassium; rather, potassium is obtained through dietary sources. The statement suggesting that kidneys do not play a significant role is inaccurate because their regulatory function is essential for maintaining proper potassium levels within the body. Overall, the excretion of potassium by the kidneys is vital for electrolyte balance and overall homeostasis.