In the context of a patient undergoing IV furosemide (Lasix) treatment for hypertension, which observation is most crucial to communicate to the healthcare provider?
Serum potassium level is 3.0 mEq/L.
The current blood pressure reading is 168/94 mm Hg.
Blood glucose level is at 175 mg/dL.
There’s an orthostatic systolic BP decrease of 12 mm Hg.
The Correct Answer is A
Furosemide (Lasix) is a diuretic medication used to treat hypertension and edema. One of the side effects of furosemide is hypokalemia, or low potassium levels. A serum potassium level of 3.0 mEq/L is lower than the normal range (3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L), which can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias.
Therefore, this observation is crucial to communicate to the healthcare provider.
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Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Bradycardia, palpitations, confusion, and truncal rash are not typically associated with septic shock. Septic shock is a severe infection that occurs when bacteria enter the bloodstream. It can cause organs to fail and can lead to death.
Choice B rationale
Severe respiratory distress, jugular venous distention, and chest pain are more commonly associated with conditions like heart failure or pulmonary embolism, not septic shock.
Choice C rationale
Low blood pressure and tachycardia are common symptoms of septic shock. This happens because the body’s response to the infection causes blood vessels to dilate, which can lower blood pressure. The heart rate often increases (tachycardia) in an attempt to maintain blood flow to the organs.
Choice D rationale
Reduced cardiac output, increased systemic vascular resistance, and a moist cough are not typical symptoms of septic shock. These symptoms are more commonly associated with conditions like heart failure.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Secondary hypertension is high blood pressure that is caused by another medical condition or medication. It is not the most common type of hypertension.
Choice B rationale
Congenital hypertension is not a recognized type of hypertension. Hypertension can be associated with some congenital conditions, but it is not a type of hypertension itself.
Choice C rationale
Acquired hypertension is not a recognized type of hypertension. While lifestyle factors can contribute to the development of hypertension, the term “acquired hypertension” is not typically used.
Choice D rationale
Primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension, is the most common type of hypertension. It is high blood pressure that does not have a known secondary cause.
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