A client with heart failure (HF) develops hyperaldosteronism and spironolactone is prescribed. Which instruction should the nurse include in this patient’s plan of care?
Replace salt with a salt substitute.
Limits intake of high-potassium foods.
Cover your skin before going outside.
Monitor skin for excessive bruising.
The Correct Answer is B
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by blocking the actions of aldosterone, a hormone that can lead to potassium loss in the urine. However, in some cases, spironolactone can cause hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood), which can be dangerous for patients with heart failure. Therefore, it is important to instruct the patient to limit their intake of high-potassium foods such as bananas, oranges, tomatoes, spinach, and salt substitutes containing potassium.
Option a (Replace salt with a salt substitute) is incorrect because salt substitutes often contain potassium, which can further increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
Option c (Cover your skin before going outside) is unrelated to the use of spironolactone and hyperkalemia.
Option d (Monitor skin for excessive bruising) is not directly related to the use of spironolactone and hyperkalemia, although it is a potential side effect of other medications used to treat heart failure.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The nurse should explain to the client's daughter that Rivastigmine is most effective when used early during Alzheimer's disease. Delaying the use of the medication until the symptoms are no longer manageable may result in the drug being less effective.
The nurse should emphasize the importance of following the healthcare provider's instructions for administering the medication to maximize its therapeutic effect. It is important to educate the client's daughter about the progressive nature of Alzheimer's disease and the need for ongoing monitoring and care.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart failure by strengthening the heart's contractions and slowing down the heart rate. However, it can also cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, especially when levels in the body are too high. Furosemide is a diuretic medication that helps to remove excess fluid from the body, which is often necessary in heart failure. However, it can also cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels, which can contribute to nausea and vomiting.
Therefore, in a client with heart failure who is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to assess their medication regimen, including dosages and serum levels, to ensure that they are not experiencing medication side effects or toxicity.
Adjustments may need to be made to the client's medication regimen to manage symptoms effectively and prevent further complications. Options (a), (b), and (d) do not have as direct a correlation to the current symptoms and would not have the same level of significance when planning care for this client.
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