Question

The nurse is caring for a patient being treated pharmacologically for heart failure. Which laboratory values is the nurse careful to monitor during treatment? Select all that apply.

1. Potassium levels
2. BUN
3. Creatinine
4. Liver function tests
5. Serum drug levels

Answer 1

The nurse should monitor potassium levels, BUN, plasma creatinine, liver function tests, and serum drug levels when treating a patient with heart failure.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse is careful to monitor the following laboratory values during treatment of a patient with heart failure:

1. Potassium levels: Heart failure can cause electrolyte imbalances, including low potassium levels. When treating heart failure, medications such as diuretics can further decrease potassium levels. Monitoring potassium levels is important to prevent complications such as arrhythmias.
2. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN): BUN is a measure of kidney function. In heart failure, kidney dysfunction can occur as a result of reduced blood flow. Monitoring BUN levels helps assess kidney function and identify any worsening of heart failure.
3. Plasma creatinine: Creatinine is another indicator of kidney function. Monitoring plasma creatinine levels helps assess kidney function and detect any deterioration.
4. Liver function tests: In heart failure, liver congestion can occur as a result of decreased blood flow. Monitoring liver function tests can help identify any liver dysfunction that may occur as a complication of heart failure or as a side effect of medications.
5. Serum drug levels: Monitoring serum drug levels is important to ensure that the pharmacological treatment for heart failure is effective and within therapeutic levels.