NCLEX RN Client Needs Physiologic Adaptation Related

Review NCLEX RN Client Needs Physiologic Adaptation related questions and content

The nurse is reviewing the laboratory results for a client who is receiving torsemide 5 mg orally daily. What value should indicate to the nurse that the client might be experiencing an adverse effect of the medication?

  • A. A chloride level of 98 mEq/L (98 mmol/L)
  • B. A sodium level of 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L)
  • C. A potassium level of 3.1 mEq/L (3.1 mmol/L)
  • D. A blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 15 mg/dL (5.4 mmol/L)
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Torsemide is a loop diuretic. The medication can produce acute, profound water loss; volume and electrolyte depletion; dehydration; decreased blood volume; and circulatory collapse. Option 3 is the only option that indicates electrolyte depletion because the normal potassium level is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L). The normal chloride level is 98 to 107 mEq/L (98 to 107 mmol/L). The normal sodium level is 135 to 145 mEq/L (135 to 145 mmol/L). The normal BUN level ranges from 10 to 20 mg/dL (3.6 to 7.1 mmol/L).