Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 95%
Simulated
A nurse in a provider's office is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who takes furosemide for hypertension. The nurse notes that the client's potassium level is 3.3 mEq/L. The nurse should monitor the client for which of the following complications?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
The correct answer is C: Cardiac dysrhythmias. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium depletion, leading to hypokalemia. A low potassium level can increase the risk of cardiac dysrhythmias, as potassium plays a crucial role in maintaining normal cardiac function. Monitoring for cardiac dysrhythmias is essential in this client to prevent potential serious complications such as arrhythmias, palpitations, and even cardiac arrest. Neurogenic shock (A) is not directly related to low potassium levels. Seizures (B) are more commonly associated with low sodium levels. Hypoglycemia (D) is related to low blood sugar levels and is not directly linked to potassium levels in this scenario.