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?

Choice A rationale:

Albuterol primarily acts as a bronchodilator by opening up the airways. It does not have a significant anti-inflammatory effect. Inhaled corticosteroids are more commonly used to reduce airway inflammation in asthma.

Choice B rationale:

Albuterol, a beta-2 agonist, helps with breathing by relaxing the smooth muscles in the airways, which opens them up. This action allows for improved airflow and ease of breathing. Therefore, this choice is correct.

Choice C rationale:

Albuterol is used to relieve bronchospasm, which can prevent wheezing in individuals with asthma. It does not have a direct effect on reducing mucus production or coughing.

Choice D rationale:

Albuterol does not increase the amount of mucus production. In fact, it can help reduce coughing by relieving bronchospasm, but it does not directly suppress coughing episodes.

Choice E rationale:

Albuterol can help reduce coughing episodes by improving airflow and reducing the irritation that leads to coughing.

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.