Question

The nurse is preparing to administer furosemide to a client with severe heart failure. What lab study should be of most concern for this client while taking furosemide?

1) Potassium level of 3.1
2) Sodium level of 135
3) Hemoglobin of 12
4) BNP of 100

Answer 1

The most concerning lab study for a client with severe heart failure on furosemide is a potassium level of 3.1, indicating hypokalemia, which can lead to muscle weakness and cardiac arrhythmias.

Step-by-step explanation:

The lab study that should be of most concern for a client with severe heart failure who is taking furosemide is the potassium level of 3.1. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause the kidneys to excrete more potassium, leading to hypokalemia (abnormally decreased blood levels of potassium). A potassium level of 3.1 is considered low, as the normal level of serum potassium is typically between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L. Hypokalemia can be dangerous, leading to symptoms such as muscle weakness and serious cardiac arrhythmias, hence, monitoring serum potassium levels is critical in patients receiving furosemide.