Ch 41 Diuretics

Spironolactone

Aldosterone antagonist/Potassium sparing

A client with cirrhosis of the liver and ascites has been taking chlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic. Why did the provider add spironolactone to the client's medication regimen? A. To stimulate sodium excretion B. To help prevent potassium loss C. To increase urine specific gravity D. To reduce arterial blood pressure

B. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic often used in conjunction with thiazide diuretics. The provider was promoted to add spironolactone to the chlorothiazide to prevent potassium loss. Both medications stimulate sodium excretion. Both medications increase urine specific gravity and reduce arterial BP.

The primary HCP prescribes 80 mg of furosemide by mouth daily. Before administering the furosemide, which action is the priority? A. Weigh the client B. Assess skin turgor C. Check the potassium lab results D. Check the I/O for the last 24 hr

C. Although assessing skin turgor, weighing the client, and checking the intake and output are all a part of assessing for hydration, the potassium level should always be checked before administering furosemide. Administering furosemide in the presence of hypokalemia could cause cardiac arrhythmias.

A client is taking furosemide. At each clinic visit, the nurse should assess for what adverse effect? A. Rapid weight loss B. Xanthopsia C. Hyporeflexia D. Bronchospasm

C. Furosemide enhances the excretion of potassium, producing signs and symptoms of hypokalemia, such as hyporeflexia. Rapid weight loss, xanthopsia, and bronchospasm are not side effects of furosemide.

Furosemide

Loop

Mannitol

Osmotic

Hydrochlorothiazide

Thiazide