A nurse is caring for a client who is taking furosemide (Lasix) daily to treat heart failure. The nurse recognizes that the client is at risk for which electrolyte imbalance?
Hypokalemia
Hypocalcemia
Hypernatremia
Hyperkalemia
The Correct Answer is A
A. Hypokalemia: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by increasing urinary excretion of sodium, chloride, and water, which can lead to potassium loss. Hypokalemia is a common electrolyte imbalance associated with the use of loop diuretics like furosemide. Potassium depletion can cause various complications, including cardiac dysrhythmias, muscle weakness, and fatigue.
B. Hypocalcemia: Furosemide does not directly affect calcium levels, so hypocalcemia is not a common electrolyte imbalance associated with its use.
C. Hypernatremia: Furosemide promotes the excretion of sodium, so hypernatremia (elevated serum sodium levels) is not typically a concern with its use.
D. Hyperkalemia: Furosemide can cause potassium loss, so hyperkalemia is not a risk associated with its use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Poorly coordinated care and nosocomial infections are examples of errors: Poorly coordinated care, such as miscommunication between healthcare providers or lack of continuity in care, and nosocomial infections (infections acquired in the healthcare setting) are examples of errors that can compromise patient safety and contribute to adverse events.
B. Handoff errors are not causes of adverse events: Handoff errors, including miscommunication during transitions of care, are significant contributors to adverse events in healthcare settings. Improper handoffs can lead to misunderstandings, delays in treatment, and errors in medication administration.
C. Medication errors are intentional: Medication errors are unintended and can occur due to various factors, including human error, system failures, and communication breakdowns. They are not intentional acts.
D. As many as 10% of medication errors are preventable: Medication errors are often preventable with the implementation of safety measures such as barcode scanning, medication reconciliation, and standardized protocols. The percentage of preventable medication errors may vary depending on the healthcare setting and the effectiveness of safety initiatives.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Dyspnea on exertion: Dyspnea on exertion is a common symptom in clients with heart failure and may indicate worsening heart function. While it warrants monitoring and potential intervention, it is not as urgent as rapid weight gain.
B. Increased urination: Increased urination may be expected with the use of diuretics, as they promote the excretion of excess fluid from the body. This finding is not typically concerning unless accompanied by other symptoms.
C. Weight gain of 2 pounds in a week: A weight gain of 2 pounds in a week may indicate fluid retention, but it is not as concerning as a rapid weight gain over a shorter period.
D. Weight gain of 3 pounds in 24 hours: A rapid weight gain of 3 pounds in 24 hours is significant and may indicate fluid overload, potentially leading to exacerbation of heart failure symptoms. It should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.