A nurse is caring for a client who has heart failure and a new prescription for furosemide.Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse review before administering furosemide?
Bicarbonate.
Potassium.
Phosphate.
Carbon dioxide.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice B rationale
Potassium levels should be reviewed before administering furosemide. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause significant potassium loss through increased urine output. Monitoring potassium is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias and other serious complications.
Choice A rationale
Bicarbonate levels are not directly impacted by furosemide use and are less critical to review in this context. While they are important in assessing acid-base balance, they are not the primary concern when administering furosemide.
Choice C rationale
Phosphate levels are not typically affected by furosemide and are not the main focus before administration. Monitoring phosphate might be important in other scenarios, but it is not directly relevant here.
Choice D rationale
Carbon dioxide levels are more relevant to respiratory function and acid-base balance but are not directly impacted by furosemide. The focus should be on monitoring electrolytes, particularly potassium, to prevent complications from diuretic therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Increasing fluid intake is contraindicated in clients with fluid overload, such as those with bilateral lower extremity edema and lung crackles. It can worsen the condition.
Choice B rationale
Administering prescribed diuretics is the priority intervention to reduce fluid overload in clients with heart failure post-STEMI. It helps to decrease edema and pulmonary congestion.
Choice C rationale
Applying warm compresses to the lower extremities may provide temporary relief but does not address the underlying issue of fluid overload.
Choice D rationale
Encouraging ambulation is beneficial for overall health but is not a priority intervention for managing fluid overload in this context. .
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Encouraging the client to ambulate within 30 minutes following the procedure is not recommended as it could lead to complications such as bleeding or hematoma at the insertion site.
Choice B rationale
Keeping the client NPO for at least 2 hours following the procedure is not typically necessary and does not relate directly to the care required after a cardiac catheterization.
Choice C rationale
Assessing pulses in the client's affected arm is crucial to ensure that there is adequate blood flow and no compromise in circulation following the procedure.
Choice D rationale
Applying light pressure to the insertion site may help in preventing bleeding initially, but it is more critical to monitor for signs of bleeding or hematoma formation over time. .
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