A nurse is caring for a client who is receiving furosemide to treat heart failure.
Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor for this client?.
A.
Serum cholesterol.
B.
Serum amylase.
C.
Serum potassium.
D.
Serum triglyceride.
The correct answer and Explanation is :
The correct answer is C. Serum potassium.
Explanation:
Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly used to manage fluid overload in conditions such as heart failure. It works by increasing urine production, which helps to reduce the volume of fluid in the body and, consequently, alleviate symptoms related to heart failure.
However, one of the key side effects of loop diuretics like furosemide is the potential for electrolyte imbalances. Monitoring serum potassium levels is particularly important because furosemide can cause significant potassium loss through increased urine output. This can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels), which can have serious implications for cardiac function and overall health.
Potassium is a critical electrolyte necessary for proper cell function, especially in muscle cells, including cardiac muscle cells. Hypokalemia can cause various issues, including:
- Cardiac Arrhythmias: Potassium is essential for maintaining normal heart rhythm. Low levels can lead to dangerous arrhythmias, which can increase the risk of sudden cardiac events.
- Muscle Weakness and Cramps: Potassium is vital for muscle function, and its deficiency can lead to muscle weakness and cramps.
- Fatigue and General Weakness: Low potassium levels can contribute to feelings of fatigue and general weakness, affecting the client’s overall quality of life.
To manage these risks, the nurse should regularly monitor the client’s serum potassium levels and be prepared to take corrective action if levels become abnormal. This might include dietary modifications to increase potassium intake, oral potassium supplements, or adjusting the dose of furosemide as prescribed by the healthcare provider.
Other laboratory values listed, such as serum cholesterol, serum amylase, and serum triglycerides, are not directly related to the primary concerns of furosemide therapy and do not need to be monitored as closely in this context.