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
Explanation
A. Hamburger on a bun, banana: This choice is high in protein and potassium, which may not be suitable for someone with chronic renal disease, as excessive potassium intake can be harmful to individuals with impaired kidney function.
B. Carrots, green leafy vegetables, a pear: This choice is low in potassium and phosphorus, making it suitable for someone with chronic renal disease. Carrots and green leafy vegetables are generally lower in potassium, and a pear is a low-potassium fruit option.
C. Spaghetti with meat sauce, breadstick: This choice may be high in protein and sodium, depending on the sauce and breadstick ingredients, which may not be ideal for someone with chronic renal disease.
D. Cold cuts with bun, blueberries: Cold cuts can be high in sodium, and blueberries are moderately high in potassium, so this choice may not be appropriate for someone with chronic renal disease.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"C"}
Explanation
The nurse should first place the client in high Fowler's position to ease the breathing and improve oxygenation, as the client is experiencing increased dyspnea and chest pain. This position allows for better lung expansion and can be a critical immediate intervention. Following this, the nurse should obtain IV access to facilitate the administration of medications and fluids as needed. IV access is essential for the rapid administration of potential treatments, including anticoagulants, which may be required if a pulmonary embolism is confirmed. These actions are prioritized to address the client's immediate respiratory distress and to prepare for further interventions based on the evolving clinical situation. It is important to note that each clinical scenario is unique, and the interventions should be tailored to the client's specific needs and the healthcare provider's clinical judgment.
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