Question

The nurse is teaching a client who is taking a potassium-sparing diuretic about what foods to avoid. Which foods contain high amounts of potassium? (Select all that apply.)

A. Apples
B. Bananas
C. Broccoli
D. Oranges
E. Spinach

Answer 1

Bananas and oranges are high in potassium and should be limited or avoided by someone taking a potassium-sparing diuretic. Broccoli and spinach also contain potassium, whereas apples are lower in potassium. It's essential to manage potassium intake to avoid hyperkalemia.

Step-by-step explanation:

When teaching a client who is taking a potassium-sparing diuretic about dietary considerations, it is important to inform them about foods high in potassium that they may need to avoid or limit. Foods high in potassium include:

• bananas
• oranges
• broccoli
• spinach

Apples, while healthy, have lower potassium content compared to the other listed foods. The total potassium intake for an average adult should be around 4700 mg/day. However, those on potassium-sparing diuretics should manage their intake carefully under the guidance of a healthcare provider to avoid hyperkalemia, which is an excessive amount of potassium in the blood.

Dietary potassium is associated with benefits such as lowering hypertension, but when on potassium-sparing diuretics, it's crucial to balance intake. Counseling on a low-potassium diet may be part of a comprehensive treatment plan.