What finding indicates a therapeutic response in a client being treated with sevelamer?

The identification of a therapeutic response in a client treated with sevelamer is linked to decreased serum phosphorus levels. Sevelamer is a non-calcium phosphate binder that is commonly used in patients with chronic kidney disease to manage hyperphosphatemia, a common complication due to impaired phosphate excretion.

When sevelamer successfully binds to dietary phosphate in the gastrointestinal tract, it prevents the absorption of phosphate into the bloodstream, leading to lower levels of serum phosphorus. This reduction is crucial for managing the complications associated with high phosphorus levels, such as cardiovascular disease and bone disorders. Therefore, monitoring serum phosphorus levels helps assess the effectiveness of sevelamer therapy and ensures that the client is receiving the intended benefit of the medication.

The other options, such as increased serum calcium levels, increased hemoglobin levels, and decreased serum potassium levels, do not directly reflect the primary action of sevelamer and would not specifically indicate a therapeutic response to this medication.