A nurse is teaching a client who is on a low-sodium diet. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include? (Select all that apply.)

Choice A: Corticosteroid is incorrect because it does not directly affect the potassium level in the blood, although it can cause sodium and water retention, which can dilute the potassium concentration. Corticosteroid is a type of anti- inflammatory medication that can be used to treat conditions such as asthma, arthritis, or allergic reactions.

Choice B: Narcotic is incorrect because it does not directly affect the potassium level in the blood, although it can cause respiratory depression, which can lead to respiratory acidosis and hyperkalemia, or high potassium level. Narcotic is a type of analgesic medication that can be used to treat moderate to severe pain.

Choice C: Thiazide diuretic is correct because it is a type of medication that increases urine output and sodium excretion, but also causes potassium loss in the urine. Thiazide diuretic can be used to treat conditions such as hypertension, edema, or heart failure.

Choice D: Muscle relaxer is incorrect because it does not directly affect the potassium level in the blood, although it can cause muscle weakness, which can mimic the symptoms of hypokalemia. Muscle relaxer is a type of medication that can be used to treat conditions such as muscle spasms, back pain, or fibromyalgia.

Choice A: Measure body weight every day is correct because body weight is an indicator of fluid balance and can help monitor the effectiveness of the medication. The nurse should instruct the patient to weigh themselves at the same time each day, preferably in the morning, and report any significant changes to the provider.

Choice B: Expect urination to increase is correct because furosemide is a diuretic that works by blocking the reabsorption of sodium and water in the kidneys, thus increasing urine output and reducing fluid volume. The nurse should instruct the patient to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance and to avoid taking the medication at night to prevent nocturia and sleep disturbance.

Choice C: Taking the medication before going to sleep is incorrect because taking furosemide at night can cause nocturia and sleep disturbance, as well as increase the risk of falls. The nurse should instruct the patient to take the medication in the morning or early afternoon and to avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can also increase urination.

Choice D: Report swelling of the face or hands is correct because swelling of the face or hands can indicate an allergic reaction or angioedema, which are rare but serious side effects of furosemide. The nurse should instruct the patient to stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if they experience swelling of the face or hands, as well as difficulty breathing, hives, or itching.

Choice E: Expecting to feel weak and dizzy is correct because weakness and dizziness are common side effects of furosemide, especially when starting or increasing the dose. The nurse should instruct the patient to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position and to use caution when driving or performing other activities that require alertness. The nurse should also instruct the patient to report any signs of hypotension, such as fainting, blurred vision, or chest pain.