Potassium Problem
A physician orders furosemide (Lasix) and spironolactone (Aldactone) for a patient. Prior to administering the medication, the nurse determines that the patient's potassium is 3.2 mEq/L. In addition to notifying the physician, the nurse should anticipate taking which of the following actions?
(1) Not administering the Lasix or Aldactone.
(2) Administering the Aldactone only.
(3) Administering the Lasix only.
(4) Administering the Lasix and Aldactone.
3 comments:
The Correct Answer to the Question above is:
(2)
Reworded question: What are the side effects and nursing implications of Lasix and Aldactone?
Strategy: Determine the outcome of each answer choice.
Category: Implementation/Physiological Integrity
(1) Not administering the Lasix or Aldactone.—The potassium level is below normal (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). Lasix is a potassium-wasting diuretic. Aldactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic. There is no reason to hold the Aldactone because the patient has a low potassium level. Eliminate this answer.
(2) Administering the Aldactone only.—CORRECT: The Aldactone should be administered.
(3) Administering the Lasix only.—Do not administer the Lasix since it is a potassium-wasting diuretic. The patient's potassium is already low. Eliminate.
(4) Administering the Lasix and Aldactone.—Do not administer the Lasix. Eliminate.
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Furosemide (Lasix)
Side effects:
Hypotension
Hypokalemia
Hyperglycemia
Nausea
Polyuria
Rash, pruritus
Nursing Considerations:
Used in treatment of pulmonary edema and edema in other conditions
PO: Diuresis onset 60 minutes, peak 1-2 hours, duration 6-8 hours
IV: Diuresis onset 5 minutes, peak ½ hour, duration 2 hours
PO: Take with food or milk to prevent GI upset, slightly lessened absorption, tablets may be crushed.
Take early in the day to prevent nocturia and sleeplessness
Avoid changing positions (sitting/standing/lying) rapidly
Use sunscreen or protective clothing to prevent photosensitivity
Rx; Pregnancy Category C
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