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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Fluid restriction: Fluid restriction is not indicated for high serum magnesium levels. It is generally used for conditions like heart failure or renal impairment, but not specifically for managing hypermagnesemia.
B. Furosemide (Lasix): This is the correct choice because furosemide is a diuretic that can help promote the excretion of excess magnesium through the urine. It is an appropriate treatment for hypermagnesemia, which is indicated by the elevated serum magnesium level.
C. Calcium carbonate (Tums): This option is incorrect as calcium carbonate is typically used to treat hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels) or to bind excess phosphate, not to manage elevated magnesium levels.
D. Magnesium oxide (MagOx): This is not suitable because magnesium oxide would increase the magnesium level further, not decrease it. It is used to supplement magnesium in cases of deficiency, not to treat hypermagnesemia.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Serum potassium 3.2 mEq/L: A serum potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L) and indicates hypokalemia, which can cause serious cardiac arrhythmias and muscle weakness. This condition requires prompt correction and collaboration with the healthcare provider before surgery to avoid intraoperative and postoperative complications.
B. Pulse rate 65 bpm: A pulse rate of 65 bpm is within the normal range (60-100 bpm). While it should be monitored, it does not require immediate intervention or collaboration with the healthcare provider before surgery.
C. Hematocrit 36%: A hematocrit level of 36% is within the lower end of the normal range (35-45% for women). This does not indicate an immediate concern that requires prompt collaboration with the healthcare provider.
D. Blood pressure 144/82 mmHg: Although this blood pressure reading is slightly elevated, it is not uncommon and can be managed perioperatively. It does not require immediate intervention before surgery.
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