A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who has pulmonary edema and is about to start taking furosemide.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
Eat foods that contain plenty of potassium.
Take the medication at bedtime.
Take aspirin for headaches.
Expect some swelling in the hands and feet.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should instruct the client to consume foods rich in potassium because furosemide, a loop diuretic, can lead to potassium depletion. By consuming potassium-rich foods, the client can help maintain proper electrolyte balance. Common potassium-rich foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes, and leafy greens. It is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, as it can result in adverse effects such as cardiac dysrhythmias and muscle weakness.
Choice B rationale:
Taking furosemide at bedtime is not necessary, and it is not a standard instruction. Furosemide is usually taken in the morning to avoid nocturia, as it increases urine output. This option does not address the primary concern of managing pulmonary edema and the potential electrolyte imbalances associated with furosemide use.
Choice C rationale:
Taking aspirin for headaches is not relevant to the client's condition of pulmonary edema or the use of furosemide. This choice does not provide valuable guidance to the client and may lead to unnecessary medication use.
Choice D rationale:
Expecting swelling in the hands and feet is not an appropriate instruction for a client with pulmonary edema. The goal of furosemide therapy is to reduce edema and fluid retention, not to expect or tolerate swelling. This option does not contribute to the client's well-being and recovery.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Tolerance to nitroglycerin is not indicated by the presence of a headache. Nitroglycerin is a vasodilator used to relieve angina, and headaches can be a common side effect.
Choice B rationale:
Allergic reactions to nitroglycerin are rare, and a headache is not a typical symptom of an allergy to this medication.
Choice C rationale:
"A headache is a common adverse effect of this medication, but it will probably occur less often over time.”. This is the correct response. Nitroglycerin commonly causes headaches due to its vasodilatory effects. Patients often experience this side effect initially, but it tends to improve or occur less frequently with continued use. The nurse should educate the client about this and reassure them that the headaches should diminish over time.
Choice D rationale:
Anxiety may exacerbate chest pain, but it is not the likely cause of the headache. It is important to address the headache as a potential side effect of the medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Taking hydrochlorothiazide on an empty stomach is not a requirement for this medication. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic used to treat conditions like hypertension and edema. It can be taken with or without food, and food may help reduce stomach upset for some individuals.
Choice B rationale:
Muscle weakness is an adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide. Therefore, it is not an expected outcome. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, and one of its common side effects is potassium loss through increased urine output. This can lead to muscle weakness and cramping. The nurse should educate the client about the signs and symptoms of low potassium and the importance of including potassium-rich foods in their diet.
Choice C rationale:
Increasing daily intake of foods high in potassium is essential information to include in the teaching for a client taking hydrochlorothiazide. Thiazide diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide can cause potassium depletion, which may result in adverse effects like muscle weakness, cramping, and cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, advising the client to consume potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes, can help counteract the potassium loss associated with the medication.
Choice D rationale:
Taking the medication at bedtime is not a specific requirement for hydrochlorothiazide. Thiazide diuretics can be taken at various times of the day, depending on the client's preferences and when they are most compliant with their medication regimen. The timing of administration should be consistent to maintain the medication's effectiveness.
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