A nurse understands that a common reason why a patient is prescribed a combination of diuretics is because?
They are a part of the initial diuretic therapy.
They decrease the risk of hypokalemia while still excreting sodium.
They boost the blood-pressure-lowering effect of other medications.
They have fewer side effects when used in a drug combination.
The Correct Answer is B
Hypokalemia is a condition where the blood potassium level is too low, which can cause muscle weakness, arrhythmias, and other problems. Diuretics are drugs that increase urine output and help remove excess fluid from the body. Some diuretics, such as loop diuretics, also cause potassium loss in the urine. To prevent hypokalemia, a combination of diuretics may be prescribed, such as a loop diuretic with a potassium-sparing diuretic or a thiazide diuretic. These combinations help balance the potassium level while still removing sodium and water.
Choice A is wrong because they are not a part of the initial diuretic therapy. Combination diuretic therapy is usually reserved for patients who have resistant edema or hypertension that does not respond to monotherapy.
Choice C is wrong because they do not boost the blood-pressure-lowering effect of other medications. Diuretics can lower blood pressure by reducing blood volume and relaxing blood vessels, but they are not used to enhance the effect of other antihypertensive drugs.
Choice D is wrong because they do not have fewer side effects when used in a drug combination. Combination diuretic therapy can increase the risk of electrolyte imbalances, such as hyponatremia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia, and metabolic alkalosis. It can also cause hypotension, dehydration, and worsening renal function. Therefore, combination diuretic therapy should be used with caution and close monitoring.
Normal ranges for blood potassium level are 3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L or 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. Normal ranges for blood sodium level are 135 to 145 mmol/L or 135 to 145 mEq/L.
Normal ranges for blood pressure are less than 120/80 mm Hg for normal, 120-129/less than 80 mm Hg for elevated, 130-139/80-89 mm Hg for stage 1 hypertension, and 140 or higher/90 or higher mm Hg for stage 2 hypertension.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
According to the International Society of Hypertension, lifestyle interventions are recommended for three to six months before medication in patients with grade 1 hypertension (BP < 160/100 mm Hg) and no comorbidities.Diet and exercise can lower BP by reducing weight, sodium intake, alcohol consumption, and stress levels.
Choice A is wrong because angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are not the first-line medication for hypertension in the general population.They are preferred in patients with diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or heart failure.
Choice B is wrong because combination diuretics are not the initial recommendation for hypertension.They are used when monotherapy is not sufficient to achieve the target BP or when there is fluid retention.
Choice C is wrong because beta-adrenergic blocking agents are not the first-line medication for hypertension in the general population.They are preferred in patients with ischemic heart disease, heart failure, or arrhythmias.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This is because potassium sparing diuretics do not lower potassium levels in the blood, unlike other types of diuretics.Potassium is an essential electrolyte that serves nerve and muscular functions and is regulated by the kidneys.Low potassium levels can cause irregular heartbeats and other problems. Therefore, patients taking potassium sparing diuretics should avoid food sources that are high in potassium, such as bananas, avocados, spinach, and potatoes.
Choice A is wrong because thiazide diuretics, such as hydrochlorothiazide, can cause low potassium levels in the blood.
Patients taking thiazide diuretics may need to take potassium supplements or eat more potassium-rich foods to prevent hypokalemia.
Choice B is wrong because osmotic diuretics, such as mannitol, do not affect potassium levels in the blood.
They work by increasing the amount of water in the urine, but do not alter the electrolyte balance.
Osmotic diuretics are mainly used to treat cerebral edema and glaucoma.
Choice D is wrong because loop diuretics, such as furosemide, can also cause low potassium levels in the blood.
They work by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium and water in the loop of Henle, a part of the kidney.
Loop diuretics are used to treat edema and heart failure.
Normal ranges for potassium in the blood are 3.5 to 5.0 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).
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.