Exhibits
Review the exhibits and click to mark whether each assessment finding represents a therapeutic result of the furosemide administered, a non-therapeutic side effect, or an unrelated finding. Each row must have one option selected.
Potassium 3.1 mEq/L
Prothrombin time/International normalized ratio (INR) 2.2
Urine output: 600 mL
A.
Potassium 3.1 mEq/L
B.
Prothrombin time/INR 2.2
C.
Urine output: 600 mL
The correct answer and Explanation is :
Here’s how the findings should be categorized:
- Potassium 3.1 mEq/L: Non-therapeutic side effect
- Prothrombin time/INR 2.2: Unrelated finding
- Urine output: 600 mL: Therapeutic result
Explanation
- Potassium 3.1 mEq/L (Non-therapeutic side effect):
Furosemide is a loop diuretic, which works by inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption in the kidneys, leading to increased urine output. However, it also causes the loss of potassium through urine. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is a common side effect of furosemide. The normal range for potassium is 3.5-5.0 mEq/L, so a level of 3.1 mEq/L indicates hypokalemia, a non-therapeutic side effect. This finding suggests the need for potassium monitoring and possibly supplementation. - Prothrombin time/INR 2.2 (Unrelated finding):
Furosemide primarily affects fluid balance and electrolytes and does not directly impact coagulation factors, which are reflected by prothrombin time (PT) and INR. The INR of 2.2 is typically associated with anticoagulation therapy (e.g., warfarin) and is unrelated to the action or side effects of furosemide. Therefore, this finding should be considered an unrelated result in the context of furosemide administration. - Urine output 600 mL (Therapeutic result):
Furosemide is given to increase urine output, especially in conditions such as heart failure, hypertension, and edema. An output of 600 mL reflects an increase in diuresis, which is a therapeutic goal of the medication. This demonstrates that the drug is effectively promoting fluid excretion, making this a therapeutic result.
Proper monitoring of electrolytes and kidney function is essential when administering furosemide to avoid complications such as hypokalemia and dehydration.