A nurse is reviewing the laboratory values of a client who is taking atorvastatin. Which of the following laboratory values indicates the treatment has been effective?

Furosemide is a diuretic that is used to treat heart failure by reducing fluid retention and lowering blood pressure. It can cause some side effects, such as increased urination, thirst, dry mouth, headache, dizziness, nausea, and electrolyte imbalance.

Choice A is wrong because BUN (blood urea nitrogen) is a measure of kidney function and a normal range is 7 to 20 mg/dL.

A BUN of 15 mg/dL is not a cause for concern and does not indicate any adverse effect of furosemide.

Choice C is wrong because potassium is an electrolyte that is important for nerve and muscle function and a normal range is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L.

Potassium of 3.8 mEq/L is within the normal range and does not indicate any adverse effect of furosemide. However, furosemide can cause low potassium levels (hypokalemia) in some cases, so the nurse should monitor the client’s potassium levels regularly and advise the client to eat foods rich in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and potatoes.

Choice D is wrong because dizziness upon standing is a common side effect of furosemide and does not require immediate notification of the provider. However, the nurse should instruct the client to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent falls and to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration.

Choice B is correct because difficulty hearing or hearing loss is a rare but serious side effect of furosemide that may indicate ototoxicity (damage to the inner ear). This can be irreversible if not treated promptly and may affect the client’s quality of life and safety. The nurse should notify the provider immediately if the client reports difficulty hearing or any other signs of ototoxicity, such as ringing in the ears (tinnitus) or vertigo (a sensation of spinning). The provider may need to adjust the dose of furosemide or switch to another diuretic that is less ototoxic.

The most appropriate action for the nurse to take in this situation is:

d. Apply a warm, moist compress.

Here's why the other options are not recommended:

• a. Initiate a new IV distal to the initial site:This is not the first course of action. While starting a new IV might be necessary eventually, it's crucial to address the issue at the current site first.
• b. Slow the IV solution rate:Slowing the rate doesn't directly address the coolness and edema, which indicate potential infiltration or extravasation.
• c. Maintain the extremity below the level of the heart:This action would actually worsen the edema by promoting fluid accumulation at the site.

Applying a warm, moist compress can help promote absorption of any leaked fluid and improve circulation at the site. However, it's important to remember that this is just one step in the process. The nurse should also:

• Stop the IV infusion.
• Assess the extent of the infiltration or extravasation.
• Document the findings.
• Elevate the affected extremity.
• Consult with a physician for further instructions and potential treatment.