A nurse is assessing a patient who has acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Which of the following findings should the nurse expect?

Choice A rationale

Phosphate levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium- sparing diuretic and does not typically affect phosphate levels.

Choice B rationale

Decreased potassium level is not typically expected in a patient taking spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it can actually lead to increased potassium levels. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, other factors may influence potassium levels.

Choice C rationale

Chloride levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone primarily affects the balance of potassium and sodium in the body.

Choice D rationale

Sodium levels could potentially be decreased in a patient taking spironolactone, as it can cause the body to lose sodium. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, sodium levels are often carefully managed.

Choice A rationale

The patient’s blood pressure is significantly low, which could indicate hypotension, a serious side effect of epidural analgesia. This should be the nurse’s priority as it can lead to complications such as decreased perfusion to vital organs.

Choice B rationale

Lower extremity weakness can be a side effect of epidural analgesia, but it is not as immediately life-threatening as hypotension.

Choice C rationale

A slight increase in temperature may not be an immediate concern unless it continues to rise or is accompanied by other signs of infection.

Choice D rationale

Severe itching can be a side effect of epidural analgesia, but it is not as immediately life- threatening as hypotension.