Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 92%
Simulated
A nurse is caring for a client who is taking triamterene. For which of the following laboratory values should the nurse withhold the medication?
Correct answer
B
Rationale
The correct answer is B: Potassium 5.3 mEq/L. Triamterene is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can cause hyperkalemia. A potassium level of 5.3 mEq/L is elevated, indicating a potential risk for further potassium accumulation when combined with triamterene. Therefore, the nurse should withhold the medication to prevent worsening hyperkalemia.
A: BUN 16 mg/dL - Normal range
C: Sodium 142 mEq/L - Normal range
D: Albumin 4 g/dL - Normal range
These values do not indicate a need to withhold triamterene.
A: BUN 16 mg/dL - Normal range
C: Sodium 142 mEq/L - Normal range
D: Albumin 4 g/dL - Normal range
These values do not indicate a need to withhold triamterene.