A client with congestive heart failure is prescribed a loop diuretic. The nurse should closely monitor the client for which electrolyte imbalance associated with this medication?
Hyponatremia
Hypocalcemia
Hyperkalemia
Hypokalemia
The Correct Answer is D
A) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics can lead to increased sodium excretion, potentially causing hypernatremia (high sodium levels) rather than hyponatremia (low sodium levels).
B) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics do not typically cause hypocalcemia (low calcium levels). They primarily affect sodium, potassium, and water excretion.
C) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics are more likely to cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). Loop diuretics can increase potassium excretion, leading to a potential deficiency.
D) This choice is correct. Loop diuretics are potent potassium-wasting diuretics, meaning they increase potassium excretion in the urine, potentially causing hypokalemia. The nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium levels and provide potassium supplementation if necessary.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) This choice is incorrect because a narrowed mediastinum is not a characteristic finding in congestive heart failure. The mediastinum is the central region of the chest, and its width is not specifically related to CHF.
B) This choice is incorrect because hyperinflated lungs are a characteristic finding in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not congestive heart failure.
C) This choice is correct. Cardiomegaly, an enlarged heart, is a common finding in congestive heart failure. The heart may appear enlarged on a chest X-ray due to fluid accumulation and strain on the heart muscle.
D) This choice is incorrect because a normal cardiac silhouette on a chest X-ray would not be indicative of congestive heart failure. The presence of cardiomegaly is more suggestive of heart failure.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) This choice is correct. Hypertension (high blood pressure) is a significant risk factor for congestive heart failure (CHF). Prolonged hypertension can lead to the heart's increased workload, causing it to weaken over time and eventually leading to CHF. The client's symptoms of fatigue, difficulty breathing, and nocturia (frequent urination at night) are common manifestations of CHF resulting from uncontrolled hypertension.
B) This choice is incorrect because diabetes mellitus, while a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, is not directly associated with the symptoms described by the client. However, diabetes can exacerbate CHF if the client's blood glucose levels are not well-controlled.
C) This choice is incorrect because smoking history is a risk factor for various cardiovascular diseases, but it is not specifically linked to the symptoms reported by the client in this case.
D) This choice is incorrect because a family history of heart disease may increase the client's risk of developing CHF, but it does not directly contribute to the current symptoms the client is experiencing.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
