Question

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a diuretic, is prescribed for a patient who is retaining fluid. The nurse should encourage the patient to ingest nutrients that contain which electrolyte?

1. Magnesium
2. Potassium
3. Calcium
4. Sodium

Answer 1

Patients taking Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) should ingest nutrients that contain potassium.

Step-by-step explanation:

When a patient is prescribed Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), a diuretic, to help with fluid retention, it is important to encourage the ingestion of nutrients that contain Potassium. HCTZ works by inhibiting the reabsorption of sodium in the distal convoluted tubule, leading to increased sodium excretion and subsequent water loss through osmosis. This increased excretion of sodium also leads to the loss of potassium, so it is important for the patient to consume foods rich in potassium to maintain electrolyte balance.