A 70-year-old male receiving high-dose IV furosemide for heart failure complains of ringing in his ears and dizziness. His current labs show normal potassium and sodium levels. What is the nurse's most appropriate intervention?
Increase the infusion rate and check the patient's sodium levels again in 2 hours
Administer potassium supplements and continue the infusion
Reassure the patient that the symptoms are temporary and continue monitoring
Stop the furosemide infusion and notify the provider
The Correct Answer is D
A. Increasing the infusion rate may exacerbate the patient's symptoms and does not address the potential toxicity from the furosemide.
B. Normal potassium levels indicate that potassium supplementation is unnecessary and does not address the dizziness and ringing in the ears, which could suggest ototoxicity from furosemide.
C. While reassurance can help, the patient's symptoms indicate a potential adverse reaction to the medication that should not be ignored.
D. Stopping the furosemide infusion and notifying the provider is the most appropriate action due to the risk of ototoxicity and the need for further evaluation of the patient's symptoms.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["D","E","F","G"]
Explanation
D. Measure lactate level: Elevated lactate levels are a strong indicator of sepsis and can help guide treatment.
E. Administer broad-spectrum antibiotics: Prompt administration of antibiotics is crucial to combat the infection.
F. Rapidly administer 30 mL/kg of normal saline: Aggressive fluid resuscitation is necessary to improve blood pressure and tissue perfusion.
G. Obtain blood cultures: Blood cultures can help identify the specific organism causing the infection and guide antibiotic therapy.
Other interventions that may be considered, but not necessarily within the first hour, include:
A. Obtain a urine specimen: This can help identify a urinary tract infection as a potential source of sepsis.
B. Insert a nasogastric tube: This may be necessary if the client is unable to tolerate oral intake or requires gastric decompression.
C. Type and cross-match for 2 units of packed RBCs: This may be necessary if the client develops significant anemia or requires blood transfusion.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Cortisol levels are not directly affected by furosemide; monitoring for adrenal function is not a priority.
B. Bicarbonate levels are not specifically monitored for clients on furosemide; this medication's main effect does not relate directly to bicarbonate balance.
C. Albumin levels are not primarily affected by furosemide; although low albumin can affect fluid status, it is not the critical monitoring focus.
D. Potassium levels should be monitored because furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to hypokalemia, which is a common and significant side effect due to increased renal excretion of potassium.
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