Question

A client's recently elevated BP has prompted the primary care provider to prescribe furosemide. The nurse should closely monitor which of the following?

a. The client's oxygen saturation level
b. The client's red blood cells, hematocrit, and hemoglobin
c. The client's level of consciousness
d. The client's potassium level

Answer 1

The nurse should prioritize monitoring the client's potassium levels when furosemide is prescribed, due to the risk of hypokalemia which can affect heart rhythm and muscle function.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse should closely monitor the client's potassium level when prescribing furosemide, which is a diuretic often used to treat conditions leading to increased blood pressure. Furosemide can cause the kidneys to excrete increased amounts of potassium (K+), which may lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels). Adequate potassium levels are essential for many bodily functions, including the regulation of heart rhythm and muscle contraction. Therefore, monitoring is important to prevent potentially serious side effects.