A hospitalized client is receiving IV furosemide (Lasix) to treat stage 2 hypertension. Which assessment finding related to the medication requires prompt collaboration with the health care provider?
5-hour urine output total of 300 mL
Serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L
Current blood pressure of 141/80 mm Hg
Serum glucose level of 135 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is B
A. 5-hour urine output total of 300 mL: This urine output is low, but it may not immediately indicate a serious issue without additional context. However, monitoring for adequate urine output is important.
B. Serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L: This is the correct choice. A serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, a serious side effect of furosemide, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and requires immediate intervention.
C. Current blood pressure of 141/80 mm Hg: Although the blood pressure is still elevated, it is not as urgent as correcting hypokalemia. The medication’s effectiveness should be monitored, but it is not an immediate concern.
D. Serum glucose level of 135 mg/dL: This level is slightly elevated but not critically high, and it does not require immediate action related to furosemide use.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Increased cardiac output: In older adults, cardiac output typically decreases, not increases, and this has a minor impact on nutritional status.
B. An increase in GI motility and absorption: GI motility and absorption generally decrease with age, not increase, which can affect nutritional status.
C. Constant snacking between meals that results in obesity: Obesity is less common in healthy older adults compared to issues related to malnutrition or economic factors.
D. Living alone on a fixed income: This can significantly impact nutritional status due to potential financial constraints affecting food availability and quality.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Client's serum pH is 7.41: This is within the normal range for blood pH (7.35-7.45) and does not specifically indicate a potassium deficit.
B. Client has a stage 2 sacral wound: This is related to skin integrity and does not directly impact potassium levels.
C. Client requires continuous nasogastric suction: Continuous nasogastric suction can lead to the loss of potassium as it removes gastric contents, which may include electrolytes.
D. Client has a history of adrenal insufficiency: While adrenal insufficiency can affect electrolyte balance, continuous nasogastric suction is a more immediate risk for potassium deficit.
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