A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking furosemide and notes the client's potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L. Which of the following physiological responses should the nurse expect related to the client's hypokalemia?

A. “Your cholesterol levels should be monitored monthly while taking this medication”: Lisinopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It does not typically affect cholesterol levels, so monthly cholesterol monitoring is not usually necessary.

B. “Make sure your diet contains a lot of potassium-rich foods.”: While a balanced diet is important for overall health, patients taking lisinopril should be cautious about consuming too much potassium. Lisinopril can increase potassium levels in the body, and consuming too many potassium-rich foods could lead to hyperkalemia, a condition characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood.

C. “Monitor your blood pressure on a regular basis.”: This is correct. Since lisinopril is used to treat high blood pressure, it’s important for patients to monitor their blood pressure regularly to ensure the medication is working effectively.

D. “Notify your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.”: This is correct. Lisinopril is not recommended during pregnancy as it can harm the unborn baby. If a patient becomes pregnant while taking lisinopril, they should notify their doctor immediately.

E. “Report the development of a persistent dry cough.”: This is correct. A persistent dry cough is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors like lisinopril. If a patient develops this symptom, they should report it to their healthcare provider.

A. Restlessness:

Restlessness is not typically associated with hypokalemia. Instead, it may indicate anxiety, discomfort, or other factors unrelated to electrolyte imbalances.

B. Hyperactive bowel sounds:

Hyperactive bowel sounds are often associated with increased gastrointestinal motility, which may occur in conditions such as diarrhea or gastroenteritis. While electrolyte imbalances can contribute to gastrointestinal symptoms, hyperactive bowel sounds are not specific to hypokalemia.

C. Decreased deep-tendon reflexes:

Hypokalemia can lead to decreased deep-tendon reflexes due to its effects on nerve conduction. Potassium is essential for proper nerve and muscle function, and low levels can impair reflexes.

D. Bounding peripheral pulses:

Bounding peripheral pulses are not typically associated with hypokalemia. Instead, they may indicate increased cardiac output or volume overload, which can occur in conditions such as heart failure.