After administering furosemide 20 mg PO to a client diagnosed with hypertension and peripheral edema, which finding would best indicate that the therapeutic effect of the medication has been achieved?
Blood pressure remains stable at 130/86 mmHg.
Lungs are clear to auscultation.
Serum potassium has decreased from 4.0 to 3.5 mEq/L.
Urine output increases from 30 mL per hour to 100 mL per hour.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason
While maintaining a stable blood pressure is important for a client with hypertension, furosemide is primarily a diuretic, and its therapeutic effect is to reduce fluid overload, not directly to stabilize blood pressure. Therefore, this finding alone does not best indicate the therapeutic effect of furosemide.
Choice B Reason
Clear lungs upon auscultation suggest an improvement in pulmonary edema, which can be associated with fluid overload in conditions such as heart failure. However, for a client with peripheral edema, the primary therapeutic goal of furosemide is to reduce the excess fluid in the extremities, not just the lungs.
Choice C Reason
A decrease in serum potassium is a known side effect of furosemide due to its action on the kidneys, leading to increased excretion of potassium. While it's important to monitor for hypokalemia, a decrease in potassium does not directly indicate the therapeutic effect of reducing edema.
Choice D Reason
An increase in urine output from 30 mL per hour to 100 mL per hour is a direct indication that furosemide is achieving its therapeutic effect. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that increases urine production to help the body eliminate excess fluid, thereby reducing edema associated with conditions like hypertension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
A blood glucose level of 80 mg/dL before eating falls within the normal fasting blood glucose range, which is between 70 mg/dL to 110 mg/dL. Therefore, this finding is not a priority concern for a client taking prednisone.
Choice B Reason:
Gaining 5 pounds over 7 months is not typically a priority concern unless it is sudden or unexplained. Prednisone can cause fluid retention and weight gain as a common side effect, but this gradual weight change does not indicate an immediate health risk.
Choice C Reason:
Waking up with a fever is a priority finding as it may indicate an infection. Patients on prednisone are at increased risk of infections due to its immunosuppressive effects¹. Fever could also signify an exacerbation of inflammatory bowel disease or other complications.
Choice D Reason:
While insomnia is a common side effect of prednisone and can impact quality of life, it is not typically a priority over signs that could indicate infection or exacerbation of the underlying condition
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C"]
Explanation
Choice A Reason
Monitoring blood glucose levels before exercise is crucial for individuals with Type 2 diabetes. Exercise can lower blood glucose levels, and it's important to ensure they are not too low before starting, which could lead to hypoglycemia during physical activity. The patient should be taught how to check their glucose and understand their target ranges.
Choice B Reason
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of hypoglycemia is essential for all individuals with diabetes, especially those on medications that can lower blood glucose levels. Symptoms may include shakiness, sweating, confusion, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. Patients should know how to respond to these symptoms promptly.
Choice C Reason
Weight control through diet and exercise is a fundamental part of managing Type 2 diabetes. A BMI of 28 falls into the overweight category, and reducing weight can help improve insulin sensitivity and blood glucose control. The patient should receive guidance on healthy eating and physical activity tailored to their needs.
Choice D Reason
Decreasing fiber and protein in the diet is not recommended for individuals with Type 2 diabetes. In fact, a diet high in fiber can help control blood sugar levels, and adequate protein intake is important for overall health. Patients should be encouraged to consume a balanced diet with sufficient fiber and protein.
Choice E Reason
While regular eye examinations are important for individuals with diabetes, obtaining them every 3 months is not typically necessary unless there is an existing eye condition that requires close monitoring. Generally, an annual eye exam is recommended to check for diabetes-related eye complications.
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