A patient has developed pitting edema in her lower legs and feet.
The nurse is knowledgeable about this condition. After the patient’s physician prescribes furosemide and the patient begins this new medication, what should the nurse anticipate?
A higher risk of urinary tract infections
A marked increased output of concentrated dark urine
A higher risk of transient incontinence and increased urine production
A marked increased output of dilute urine
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
While urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a potential risk with furosemide use, they are not the most immediate or anticipated effect following initiation of the medication.
UTIs can occur due to changes in urinary flow and potential catheter use.
However, furosemide's primary action is to increase urine output, which would not directly lead to a higher risk of UTIs at the onset of treatment.
Choice B rationale:
Concentrated dark urine is typically associated with dehydration or conditions that cause the kidneys to conserve water, such as kidney disease or severe fluid loss.
Furosemide, on the other hand, is a diuretic that promotes water loss through the urine, leading to more dilute urine.
Choice C rationale:
Transient incontinence can occur with furosemide due to the rapid increase in urine production, but it is not the most predictable or anticipated effect.
Increased urine production is expected, but transient incontinence may or may not occur in all patients.
Choice D rationale:
This is the most accurate and anticipated response.
Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the loop of Henle in the kidneys.
This leads to a significant increase in urine output, often within a few hours of administration. The urine produced is typically dilute and light-colored, as it contains a higher concentration of water and electrolytes. This is the intended effect of furosemide, as it helps to reduce fluid overload and edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Thrombophlebitis is a condition characterized by inflammation and blood clot formation within a vein. It commonly occurs in the legs, particularly after surgery or periods of prolonged immobility.
Anticoagulant medications work by preventing the formation of blood clots or by slowing their growth. They do not dissolve existing clots, but they can help prevent the clot from enlarging or breaking off and traveling to other parts of the body, such as the lungs (causing a pulmonary embolism).
Common anticoagulant medications used to treat thrombophlebitis include:
Heparin: This is a fast-acting injectable medication often used in the initial treatment of thrombophlebitis. Warfarin: This is an oral medication that takes a few days to start working but can be used for long-term treatment.
Direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs): These are newer oral medications that have a more predictable effect and fewer interactions with food and other medications compared to warfarin.
The choice of anticoagulant medication depends on several factors, including the severity of the thrombophlebitis, the patient's overall health, and any other medications they are taking.
Choice B rationale:
Antihistamine medications are used to treat allergic reactions. They do not have any effect on blood clots and would not be effective in treating thrombophlebitis.
Choice C rationale:
Antibiotic medications are used to treat infections caused by bacteria. They do not have any effect on blood clots and would not be effective in treating thrombophlebitis unless there is a concurrent bacterial infection.
Choice D rationale:
Antigens are substances that trigger an immune response in the body. They are not used to treat thrombophlebitis.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
A. Pale, yellow urine: While pale yellow urine can be a symptom of a UTI, it is not specific enough and can be caused by other factors like dehydration or certain medications. Therefore, it is not a reliable indicator of a UTI in this case.
B. Cloudy urine: Cloudy urine is a more specific symptom of a UTI, as it can indicate the presence of white blood cells or bacteria in the urine. This finding, along with other symptoms, suggests a possible UTI.
C. Suprapubic pain: Suprapubic pain, which is pain felt above the pubic bone in the lower abdomen, is a common symptom of bladder infections, including UTIs. This finding is highly suggestive of a UTI in this client.
D. Temperature of 38.2 C (100.7 F): Although fever can be a symptom of a UTI, it is not always present and can be caused by other infections or conditions. Therefore, a single elevated temperature, without other supporting symptoms, is not conclusive for a UTI diagnosis.
E. Constant urge to urinate (dysuria): Dysuria, or a frequent and urgent need to urinate, is another common symptom of UTIs. This finding, along with cloudy urine and suprapubic pain, further strengthens the suspicion of a UTI in this client.
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