A client with liver cirrhosis is prescribed spironolactone to manage fluid retention. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor closely while the client is on this medication?

A) Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic commonly used to manage fluid retention in liver cirrhosis. The nurse should monitor the client's serum potassium levels regularly as this medication can cause hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels). It is important to assess potassium levels to avoid complications associated with imbalances in potassium levels.

B) Monitoring blood glucose levels is not specifically related to the use of spironolactone in liver cirrhosis. Spironolactone does not have a significant effect on blood glucose levels.

C) Monitoring the white blood cell count is not directly related to the use of spironolactone. White blood cell count is typically monitored to assess for signs of infection or immune system response.

D) Monitoring serum calcium levels is not directly related to the use of spironolactone in liver cirrhosis. Spironolactone does not significantly impact calcium levels in the blood.

B) Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention in clients with cirrhosis but is not effective in reducing ammonia levels or managing hepatic encephalopathy.

C) Propranolol is a beta-blocker often prescribed to reduce portal hypertension and prevent variceal bleeding in clients with liver cirrhosis. It is not used to treat hepatic encephalopathy.

D) Spironolactone is a diuretic used to manage fluid retention and ascites in clients with liver cirrhosis. Like furosemide, it is not effective in reducing ammonia levels or treating hepatic encephalopathy.