A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who has Cushing's disease. The nurse should expect the client to have an increase in which of the following laboratory values?

Rationale for correct choices

• Report to the provider immediately if a dry cough develops: ACE inhibitors or similar antihypertensive medications can cause a persistent dry cough as a side effect. Early reporting allows the provider to evaluate the need for medication adjustment or substitution to prevent further complications, such as noncompliance or worsening respiratory symptoms.

• Report to the provider immediately if the client experiences muscle aches: Muscle aches or myalgia can indicate statin-induced myopathy or rhabdomyolysis, particularly with elevated LDL and prescription of statins such as rosuvastatin. Early detection prevents severe muscle breakdown, renal impairment, or other complications.

Rationale for incorrect choices

• Increase sodium intake: The client has hypertension, and increasing sodium intake would exacerbate elevated blood pressure and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications, including heart failure and stroke. Sodium restriction is essential to support blood pressure control and overall cardiovascular health.

• Take rosuvastatin only in the morning: Rosuvastatin can be taken at any time of day, unlike some other statins that are recommended in the evening. Restricting it to the morning is unnecessary and may reduce adherence if it conflicts with the client’s routine. Emphasis should be on consistent daily intake rather than timing.

Rationale:

A. Decreased inflammation: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that reduces fluid volume by promoting diuresis. While reducing edema may decrease swelling, “decreased inflammation” is not the primary measure of effectiveness for furosemide, as inflammation involves cellular processes rather than fluid removal.

B. Increased blood pressure: Furosemide typically lowers blood pressure by reducing circulating fluid volume. An increase in blood pressure would suggest the medication is not effective or another underlying issue is present, so this is not an expected finding.

C. Decreased pain: Pain reduction may occur indirectly if edema is relieved, but it is not a direct indicator of furosemide’s effectiveness. Pain levels are subjective and can be influenced by multiple factors, making this a less reliable measure.

D. Weight loss: A reduction in body weight reflects fluid loss, which is the primary therapeutic effect of furosemide. Monitoring daily weights is a standard and objective way to evaluate the effectiveness of diuretic therapy in clients with fluid volume excess.