ATI Clinical Exam Related

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A nurse is caring for a patient who has a history of heart failure and is receiving furosemide. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse monitor? Which lab result should the nurse monitor for furosemide?

  • A. Serum potassium
  • B. Serum calcium
  • C. Serum magnesium
  • D. Serum sodium
Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Serum potassium. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium loss through increased urine output. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial to prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias in a patient with a history of heart failure. Serum calcium (B) and magnesium (C) are not directly affected by furosemide use. Serum sodium (D) monitoring is important for other conditions but not specific to furosemide therapy in this case.