A nurse is monitoring a client who is receiving warfarin and has an INR of 4 (0.8 to 1.1). Which of the following medications should the nurse plan to administer?

Choice A rationale

Furosemide, a loop diuretic, can cause ototoxicity, particularly with rapid IV administration or high doses. This adverse effect manifests as tinnitus, vertigo, or irreversible hearing loss due to its impact on the hair cells in the organ of Corti within the inner ear. Therefore, reporting any indications of hearing loss is crucial for client safety.

Choice B rationale

Taking the daily dose of furosemide at bedtime is generally not recommended. Furosemide has a rapid onset and relatively short duration of action, typically leading to increased urine production for several hours. Administering it at bedtime can disrupt sleep patterns due to frequent nocturia, making morning administration preferable to minimize nocturnal diuresis.

Choice C rationale

Daily weight monitoring is essential for clients taking furosemide for heart failure. Furosemide promotes diuresis, reducing fluid overload. Daily weight checks (normal variations are within 0.5-1 kg/day) allow for assessment of fluid balance and the effectiveness of the diuretic therapy, helping to identify both fluid excess and dehydration promptly.

Choice D rationale

Furosemide is a potassium-wasting diuretic, meaning it promotes the excretion of potassium from the body. Chronic use can lead to hypokalemia (normal range 3.5-5.0 mEq/L), which can cause muscle weakness, fatigue, and cardiac arrhythmias. Consuming foods high in potassium regularly helps mitigate this electrolyte imbalance and maintain physiological function.

Choice E rationale

Furosemide can cause orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing. This occurs due to fluid volume depletion and vasodilation induced by the diuretic effect. Rising slowly from a sitting or lying position allows the cardiovascular system to compensate, reducing the risk of dizziness, syncope, and falls.

Choice A rationale

Alendronate is a bisphosphonate medication used to treat osteoporosis. It is known to be highly irritating to the esophageal mucosa, and if it lodges in the esophagus, it can cause severe esophagitis, ulceration, or erosion. Assessing the client's ability to swallow ensures safe passage of the medication and minimizes the risk of esophageal injury, highlighting a critical safety measure.

Choice B rationale

Alendronate should not be administered before bed. For optimal absorption and to minimize the risk of esophageal irritation, alendronate must be taken in the morning upon waking, at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication. Taking it before bed increases the likelihood of the pill lingering in the esophagus, leading to irritation and potential injury.

Choice C rationale

Alendronate should not be administered with orange juice. The absorption of alendronate is significantly impaired by food, beverages other than plain water, and certain minerals like calcium. Orange juice contains calcium and can decrease the bioavailability of the medication, thereby reducing its therapeutic effectiveness. It must be taken with plain water only.

Choice D rationale

Informing the client to remain supine after taking the medication is incorrect. To facilitate rapid transit to the stomach and minimize esophageal contact, clients must remain upright (sitting or standing) for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate, and until after their first food of the day. Lying down increases the risk of esophageal reflux and irritation.