A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking furosemide and notes the client's potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following physiological responses should the nurse expect related to the client's hypokalemia?

(A) Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) website: The AHRQ is a reputable source of information for healthcare professionals. It provides evidence-based information on healthcare outcomes, quality, cost, use, and access.

(B) American Association of Critical Care Nurses (AACN) website: The AACN is a credible source of information for nurses working in critical care. It provides resources, education, and advocacy to ensure optimal care for critically ill patients.

(C) Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric, and Neonatal Nurses (AWHONN) website: AWHONN is a reputable organization that promotes the health of women and newborns. Its website provides evidence-based clinical practice guidelines and other resources for nurses.

(D) A pamphlet about hypoglycemia from the American Diabetes Association: The American Diabetes Association is a reputable source of information on diabetes. A pamphlet from this organization about hypoglycemia would be based on the latest research and would be a credible source of information.

(E) Cumulative Index of Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL) website: CINAHL is a comprehensive source of full-text for nursing & allied health journals, providing full text for more than 610 journals indexed in CINAHL. This is a highly respected research tool for nurses and allied health professionals.

A. Moist mucous membranes: Moist mucous membranes are typically a sign of good hydration and are not usually associated with end-of-life stages. In fact, patients nearing the end of life often experience dryness of the mouth and mucous membranes due to decreased fluid intake and certain medications. This dryness can lead to discomfort and difficulties in swallowing or speaking, which is why oral care is an important part of end-of-life care.

B. Irregular respirations: This is correct. As the body’s systems start to shut down in the final stages of life, irregular respirations, including periods of rapid breathing and pauses (Cheyne-Stokes respirations), can be a common symptom. This happens because the body can no longer effectively remove carbon dioxide, and the automatic process of breathing becomes less coordinated. This can be distressing to witness, but it’s usually not uncomfortable for the patient.

C. Tachycardia: While some patients may experience changes in heart rate, tachycardia is not typically a consistent finding in patients at the end of life. As the body weakens, the heart has to work harder to pump blood, which can sometimes lead to a faster heart rate. However, as the end of life approaches, the heart rate often slows down, and blood pressure decreases.

D. Hypertension: Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is not typically a symptom associated with end-of-life care. In the final stages of life, the body’s systems begin to slow down, and blood pressure often decreases. This is due to a combination of factors, including a slower heart rate and a decrease in the body’s ability to regulate blood pressure. It’s also worth noting that pain, anxiety, and certain medications can temporarily increase blood pressure, even in the end-of-life stages.