Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 86%
Simulated
Passage / Scenario
A client with a prescription for a loop diuretic.A client with a prescription for a loop diuretic is experiencing muscle cramps. Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Potassium. Loop diuretics can cause potassium depletion, leading to muscle cramps. Monitoring potassium levels is essential to prevent hypokalemia, which can result in muscle weakness and cramps. Sodium (A) is not typically affected by loop diuretics. Calcium (C) and magnesium (D) levels are important, but potassium monitoring is more critical in this scenario.