A nurse is caring for a client who is taking furosemide (Lasix) daily to treat heart failure. The nurse recognizes that the client is at risk for which electrolyte imbalance?
Hypokalemia
Hypocalcemia
Hypernatremia
Hyperkalemia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hypokalemia: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by increasing urinary excretion of sodium, chloride, and water, which can lead to potassium loss. Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte imbalance associated with the use of loop diuretics like furosemide. Potassium depletion can cause various complications, including cardiac dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and fatigue.
B. Hypocalcemia: Furosemide does not directly affect calcium levels, so hypocalcemia is not a common electrolyte imbalance associated with its use.
C. Hypernatremia: Furosemide promotes the excretion of sodium, so hypernatremia (elevated serum sodium levels) is not typically a concern with its use.
D. Hyperkalemia: Furosemide can cause potassium loss, so hyperkalemia is not a risk associated with its use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Sterilize dishes before using: This is not typically necessary. Washing dishes with hot water and soap or using a dishwasher is sufficient to ensure they are clean.
B. Maintain good hygiene: Good hygiene practices are crucial for immunocompromised individuals to prevent infections.
C. Cook meats and fish well: Properly cooking meats and fish helps to kill any harmful bacteria and parasites that could cause infections.
D. Avoid consuming raw foods: Raw foods, especially meats, eggs, and some vegetables, can harbor harmful bacteria and parasites, posing a risk of infection.
E. Wash hands frequently: Frequent handwashing is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread of infections.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. The client has circumoral cyanosis: Circumoral cyanosis, or bluish discoloration around the mouth, is a sign of hypoxia but may not be present in all cases of hypoxemia. Pulse oximetry provides a more objective measurement.
B. The client's heart rate is 86 bpm: Heart rate may be within normal limits even in the presence of hypoxemia, as compensatory mechanisms may not be fully activated.
C. The client has a pulse ox of 90% on room air: A pulse oximetry reading of 90% indicates hypoxemia (oxygen saturation below normal levels), which is a significant finding, especially in a client with COPD who may already have compromised respiratory function.
D. The client is lethargic: Lethargy may occur with severe hypoxemia, but it is a late sign and may not always be present. Monitoring oxygen saturation is more reliable for early detection of hypoxemia.
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