The nurse is caring for a patient with a congenital heart anomaly who is on furosemide therapy. Which factor would the nurse monitor in this patient to ensure safe medication levels? (A) Potassium levels (B) Leukocyte count (C) Body temperature (D) Red blood cell count
Answer (1)
To ensure safe medication levels for a patient on furosemide therapy, the nurse should monitor the patient's potassium levels, making option (A) Potassium levels the correct choice.
Why Potassium Levels?
Furosemide and Its Function:
Furosemide is a type of diuretic commonly known as a 'loop diuretic,' which helps the body get rid of excess fluid by increasing urine production. It is used to treat conditions that lead to fluid retention such as heart failure.
Impact on Electrolytes:
As a diuretic, furosemide can cause the body to lose not only fluid but also electrolytes, including potassium. Potassium is a critical mineral for several bodily functions, including muscle contraction and heart function.
Risk of Hypokalemia:
When potassium levels drop too low (a condition known as hypokalemia), it can lead to muscle weakness, cramps, fatigue, and potentially life-threatening heart arrhythmias.
Monitoring Requirements:
Regular monitoring of potassium levels helps the health care provider to determine if supplements or dietary adjustments are needed to maintain a safe and effective level of potassium in the body while the patient is on furosemide therapy.
Why Not the Other Options?
(B) Leukocyte count: This is typically monitored to identify infections or immune responses but isn't directly affected by furosemide.
(C) Body temperature: While important for general health, it is not directly impacted by furosemide and is not the primary concern in ensuring medication safety.
(D) Red blood cell count: It is related more to diagnosing anemia and isn't predominantly affected by furosemide usage.
Therefore, monitoring potassium levels ensures the safe and effective use of furosemide in managing the patient's condition.
