Question

The patient is receiving bumetanide (Bumex) and asks the nurse, "What is all this about 'loops' in my medicine?" What is the best response by the nurse?

1. "This medication reabsorbs potassium in the loop of Henle in your kidney. It is safer than other diuretics."
2. "This is a loop diuretic, which means it works in the proximal loop of your kidney. Not all diuretics work the same way."
3. "This is a loop diuretic, which refers to where it acts in your kidney. Not all diuretics work the same way."
4. "This medication blocks sodium reabsorption in what is known as Bowman's capsule. Not all diuretics work the same way."

Answer 1

The nurse should explain that bumetanide is a loop diuretic that acts on the loop of Henle in the kidney, inhibiting sodium and chloride reabsorption, leading to increased urine output.

Step-by-step explanation:

The best response by the nurse regarding bumetanide (Bumex) would be: "This is a loop diuretic, which refers to where it acts in your kidney. Not all diuretics work the same way." Bumetanide specifically inhibits the reabsorption of Na+ and Cl- ions by the ascending limb of the loop of Henle in your nephron, which is a part of the excretory system. This action is crucial because it ultimately decreases the reabsorption of water, leading to increased urine production, which is why patients may experience increased urination as a side effect.