A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching with a client who has pulmonary edema and is about to start taking furosemide.
Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
A.
Eat foods that contain plenty of potassium.
B.
Take the medication at bedtime.
C.
Take aspirin for headaches.
D.
Expect some swelling in the hands and feet.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Eat foods that contain plenty of potassium.
Explanation
Furosemide is a potent loop diuretic commonly prescribed to manage conditions such as pulmonary edema, heart failure, and hypertension. One of the key aspects of patient education when starting furosemide involves addressing the effects of the medication on electrolyte levels, particularly potassium.
1. Potassium Loss: Furosemide works by increasing urine production, which helps to reduce fluid overload, such as that seen in pulmonary edema. However, this increased urine output also leads to the loss of important electrolytes, including potassium. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, can occur as a side effect of furosemide use. Symptoms of hypokalemia can include muscle weakness, fatigue, and irregular heartbeats, which can be dangerous if not managed properly.
To counteract the potassium loss, patients are often advised to consume potassium-rich foods. Foods high in potassium include bananas, oranges, potatoes, spinach, and tomatoes. In some cases, a potassium supplement may also be prescribed if dietary changes are insufficient. This guidance helps maintain proper potassium levels, which is crucial for muscle function and heart health.
2. Timing of Medication: Option B, taking the medication at bedtime, is not recommended because diuretics like furosemide can cause frequent urination. Taking it at bedtime could lead to nighttime disturbances and potential sleep disruption.
3. Aspirin for Headaches: Option C, taking aspirin for headaches, is not advised without consulting a healthcare provider. While aspirin is used for pain relief, it can interact with other medications and may not be appropriate for all patients.
4. Swelling Expectations: Option D, expecting swelling in the hands and feet, is incorrect. Furosemide is used to reduce edema (swelling) rather than cause it. Persistent or new swelling might indicate a need for a reassessment of the treatment or an underlying issue that needs addressing.
In summary, instructing the patient to eat potassium-rich foods is a critical aspect of managing the side effects of furosemide and ensuring the effectiveness and safety of their treatment regimen.