A nurse in a provider's office reviews the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide for hypertension. The nurse notes that the client's potassium level is 3.3 mEq/L (range 3.5 to 5.2). The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications?

Hypoglycemia

Neurogenic shock

Seizures

Cardiac dysrhythmias

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A. Hypoglycemia is not a typical complication of hypokalemia or furosemide use.
B. Neurogenic shock results from spinal cord injury or dysfunction, not from low potassium levels.
C. Seizures are more commonly associated with hyponatremia or hypocalcemia, not mild hypokalemia.
D. Cardiac dysrhythmias are a primary concern with hypokalemia (such as a potassium level of 3.3 mEq/L), as low potassium can disrupt cardiac electrical activity and increase the risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. Check urine for ketones — Ketone testing is typically relevant for clients with diabetes or suspected ketoacidosis, not for evaluating causes of syncope in a hypertensive client.
B. Obtain orthostatic blood pressure — A recent increase in antihypertensive medication may cause orthostatic hypotension, which can lead to syncope (fainting). Measuring orthostatic vital signs (BP and HR in lying, sitting, and standing positions) helps assess this risk and guides further intervention.
C. Decrease the dose of the antihypertensive — Nurses cannot independently alter medication doses without a provider's order. The nurse should assess and report findings before any changes are made.
D. Monitor intake — While monitoring fluid intake is important, it is not the immediate priority in evaluating a syncopal episode potentially related to medication.

A. The client should see improvement in condition in 2 days. B. Take on an empty stomach. C. It is ok to skip doses D. Notifying the health care provider is unnecessary if you experience a fast heartbeat

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. The client should see improvement in condition in 2 days — Levothyroxine typically takes 1 to 3 weeks for therapeutic effects to be noticeable.
B. Take on an empty stomach — Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, to enhance absorption.
C. It is ok to skip doses — Levothyroxine should be taken consistently every day to maintain stable hormone levels. Skipping doses can lead to symptom recurrence.
D. Notifying the health care provider is unnecessary if you experience a fast heartbeat — A fast heartbeat (tachycardia) may indicate overmedication and should be reported to the healthcare provider promptly.

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A nurse in a provider's office reviews the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide for hypertension. The nurse notes that the client's potassium level is 3.3 mEq/L (range 3.5 to 5.2). The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Explanation

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