Step-by-step explanation:
When a patient is receiving spironolactone 50 mg/day for heart failure, the nurse should closely monitor the patient for hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that helps to remove excess fluid from the body. However, it can also cause potassium levels to increase, leading to hyperkalemia.
Hyperkalemia is characterized by high levels of potassium in the blood and can have serious effects on the heart, including abnormal heart rhythms or even cardiac arrest. Symptoms of hyperkalemia may include muscle weakness, fatigue, palpitations, and irregular heartbeat.
To closely monitor the patient for hyperkalemia, the nurse should regularly check the patient's potassium levels through blood tests. Additionally, the nurse should observe for any signs or symptoms of hyperkalemia and report them promptly to the healthcare provider.
It's important for the nurse to collaborate with the healthcare team and follow the prescribed monitoring and management protocols specific to the patient's condition and medication regimen.