A nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings of a client who has liver failure with ascites. The client takes spironolactone. Which of the following findings is an adverse effect of themedication?

a. Increasing dyspnea: Atelectasis is the collapse of alveoli, leading to decreased lung volume and impaired gas exchange. Dyspnea (difficulty breathing) is a common symptom as the lung's ability to oxygenate the blood is compromised.

b. Dry cough: A dry cough may be present, but it is not specific to atelectasis. It can occur for various reasons postoperatively.

c. Facial flushing: Facial flushing is not a typical finding in atelectasis. It is more commonly associated with conditions such as fever or allergic reactions.

d. Decreasing respiratory rate: Atelectasis can lead to increased respiratory rate as the body tries to compensate for decreased lung function. A decreasing respiratory rate would be less likely in the presence of atelectasis.

a. Serum chloride 99 mEq/L: Serum chloride within the reference range is not an adverse effect of spironolactone.

b. Serum calcium 10.5 mg/dL: Serum calcium within the reference range is not an adverse effect of spironolactone.

c. Serum potassium 5.2: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, and an elevated serum potassium level is an adverse effect that requires monitoring. The nurse should assess for

hyperkalemia.

d. Serum sodium 140 mEq/L: Serum sodium within the reference range is not an adverse effect of spironolactone.