Diuretic Agents - General

Question 1

Diuretic agents: Actions

Answer 1

• Increase amount of urine produced by the kidneys

- Increase sodium excretion

Question 2

Diuretic agents: Indications

Answer 2

• Edema
• Acute pulmonary edema
• Liver disease
• Renal disease
• Hypertension
• Hyperkalemia

Question 3

Considerations for children

Answer 3

• Bumetanide is not recommended unless they are taking other ototoxic drugs or digoxin
• Adverse effects happen more often
• Monitor electrolytes

Question 4

Considerations for adults

Answer 4

-Urge to maintain fluid intake

Question 5

Potassium rich foods

Answer 5

• Avocados
• Spinach
• Peaches
• Beans
• Fruits
• Nuts
• Bananas
• Potatoes

Question 6

Assessment

Answer 6

• History: Allergies, pregnancy/lactation, fluid & electrolyte imbalances, hyperglycemia, gout, liver disease, any contraindications
• Physical: Skin, mucous membranes, heart and lung sounds, vitals, weight
• Labs: Renal and hepatic fx, electrolytes, glucose

Question 7

Nursing Diagnoses

Answer 7

• Risk for deficient fluid volume
• Impaired urinary elimination
• Deficient knowledge

Question 8

Implementation

Answer 8

• Administer PO drug with food or milk in the AM
• Administer IV diuretics slowly to prevent severe changes in fluids & electrolytes
• If using IV, switch to PO ASAP
• Assess weight daily
• Check skin turgor
• Provide appropriate amount of potassium
• Safety precautions
• Provide pt teaching

Question 9

Evaluation

Answer 9

• Evaluate response to drug
• Evaluate effectiveness of the teaching plan
• Evaluate the effectiveness of comfort and safety measures/ compliance with regimen