ATI Fundamentals Proctored Exam 2024 Related

Review ATI Fundamentals Proctored Exam 2024 related questions and content

After 5 days of diuretic therapy with 20mg of furosemide (Lasix) daily, a patient begins to exhibit fatigue, muscle cramping, and muscle weakness. These symptoms probably indicate that the patient is experiencing:

  • A. Hypokalemia
  • B. Hyperkalemia
  • C. Anorexia
  • D. Dysphagia
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The symptoms of fatigue, muscle cramping, and muscle weakness in a patient after starting furosemide therapy are indicative of hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium depletion, causing hypokalemia. Hypokalemia can manifest with muscle weakness, cramps, and fatigue due to alterations in neuromuscular function and decreased ATP production.