Caring for a client who takes Lasix: which adverse effect should the nurse monitor for?

Caring for a client who takes Lasix: which adverse effect should the nurse monitor for?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hypercalcemia
• C. Hypokalemia
• D. Hypernatremia

Answer: (C)

Loop diuretics like furosemide increase the excretion of potassium in the distal nephron, leading to hypokalemia. That potassium loss is the main adverse effect to monitor with Lasix. The body loses Na, Cl, and water too, but the potassium drop is the most clinically important because it can cause muscle weakness and, more critically, dangerous heart rhythm changes. So, the nurse should regularly check serum potassium, observe for symptoms of low potassium (like weakness or cramps), and be mindful of interactions that worsen potassium loss (for example, digoxin). Hyperkalemia or high calcium or sodium levels are not typical adverse effects of this medication.

Loop diuretics like furosemide increase the excretion of potassium in the distal nephron, leading to hypokalemia. That potassium loss is the main adverse effect to monitor with Lasix. The body loses Na, Cl, and water too, but the potassium drop is the most clinically important because it can cause muscle weakness and, more critically, dangerous heart rhythm changes. So, the nurse should regularly check serum potassium, observe for symptoms of low potassium (like weakness or cramps), and be mindful of interactions that worsen potassium loss (for example, digoxin). Hyperkalemia or high calcium or sodium levels are not typical adverse effects of this medication.