ATI Pediatric Practice Questions Related

Review ATI Pediatric Practice Questions related questions and content

The nurse is teaching a patient who has a new prescription for spironolactone (Aldactone). Which statement by the patient indicated that the teaching was effective?

  • A. I will use salt substitutes to lower my sodium intake
  • B. I will increase my intake of foods that are high in potassium
  • C. I will call my doctor if I begin having menstrual irregularities
  • D. I will take this medication at bedtime each evening
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing, aldosterone-blocking diuretic. As such, it can cause endocrine effects, such as gynecomastia, menstrual irregularities, impotence, hirsutism, and deepening of the voice. Patients taking spironolactone should avoid salt substitutes because they contain potassium; high-potassium foods should be avoided with this drug. Ideally, all diuretics should be taken in the morning to prevent nocturia.