Class IV antidysrhythmics or calcium channel blockers have what action on the cardiovascular system?

Hypokalemia is a condition of low potassium levels in the blood, which can be caused by diuretics such as furosemide (Lasix) that increase the excretion of potassium in the urine. Potassium is an important electrolyte that helps regulate the function of nerves and muscles, including the heart.Low potassium levels can cause symptoms such as confusion, tremors, muscle cramps, and nausea, which are consistent with the patient’s presentation.

Choice B, renal failure, is wrong because furosemide is used to treat fluid retention and edema caused by kidney disease, not to cause it.Renal failure would also cause symptoms such as decreased urine output, swelling, fatigue, and shortness of breath, which are not mentioned in the question.

Choice C, hyperkalemia, is wrong because hyperkalemia is a condition of high potassium levels in the blood, which can be caused by kidney disease or certain medications that decrease the excretion of potassium in the urine.Hyperkalemia can cause symptoms such as weakness, irregular heartbeat, paralysis, and chest pain, which are different from the patient’s symptoms.

Choice D, heart failure, is wrong because furosemide is also used to treat fluid retention and edema caused by heart failure, not to cause it.Heart failure would also cause symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and rapid weight gain, which are not mentioned in the question.

Normal ranges for potassium levels in the blood are 3.5 to 5.0 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L) for adults and 3.4 to 4.7 mEq/L for children.

A level below 3.5 mEq/L is considered hypokalemic and a level above 5.0 mEq/L is considered hyperkalemic.

Terazosin is a medication that belongs to the class of alpha-adrenergic blockers, which relax the muscles in the prostate and bladder neck, making it easier to urinate.It also lowers blood pressure by relaxing the veins and arteries, allowing blood to flow more easily.Therefore, terazosin can cause dizziness or fainting, especially when getting up from a sitting or lying position.To prevent this, the patient should rise slowly and avoid standing for long periods or becoming overheated.

Choice B is wrong because terazosin is not a cure for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), but a symptom reliever.Stopping the medication may cause the urinary problems to return or worsen.

The patient should continue taking terazosin as prescribed by the doctor, unless advised otherwise.

Choice C is wrong because decreasing fluid intake may increase the risk of dehydration, urinary tract infections, bladder stones, and kidney problems.

The patient should drink enough fluids to stay hydrated and flush out the urinary system.

Choice D is wrong because grapefruit juice may interact with terazosin and increase its blood levels, leading to more side effects such as low blood pressure, drowsiness, or headache.

The patient should avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking terazosin, or consult the doctor before doing so.