A nurse is caring for a client with suspected congestive heart failure. Which blood test is specifically used to measure heart strain and assist in the diagnosis of CHF?

A) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics can lead to increased sodium excretion, potentially causing hypernatremia (high sodium levels) rather than hyponatremia (low sodium levels).

B) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics do not typically cause hypocalcemia (low calcium levels). They primarily affect sodium, potassium, and water excretion.

C) This choice is incorrect because loop diuretics are more likely to cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) rather than hyperkalemia (high potassium levels). Loop diuretics can increase potassium excretion, leading to a potential deficiency.

D) This choice is correct. Loop diuretics are potent potassium-wasting diuretics, meaning they increase potassium excretion in the urine, potentially causing hypokalemia. The nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium levels and provide potassium supplementation if necessary.

A) This choice is incorrect because wheezing on auscultation is a characteristic finding in respiratory conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), not congestive heart failure.

B) This choice is incorrect because hyperactive bowel sounds are not specific to congestive heart failure and are more indicative of gastrointestinal activity.

C) This choice is incorrect because the absence of jugular vein distention is not directly related to fluid accumulation in the lungs. Jugular vein distention is associated with right-sided heart failure.

D) This choice is correct. Crackles, also known as rales, are abnormal lung sounds heard on auscultation and may indicate fluid accumulation in the lungs, a common symptom of congestive heart failure. The presence of crackles suggests pulmonary congestion due to fluid leaking into the alveoli.