Furosemide (Lasix) CHF, Hypertensive Emergency Medications

Question 1

Classification:

Answer 1

• Loop diuretic

Question 2

Action:

Answer 2

• Inhibits the absorption of the sodium and chloride ions and water in the loop of Henle, as well as the convoluted tubule of the nephron. This results in decreased absorption of water and increased urinary production

Question 3

Indications:

Answer 3

• Pulmonary edema
• CHF
• Hypertensive emergency

Question 4

Adverse Effects:

Answer 4

• Vertigo
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Hypokalemia
• Thrombophlebitis
• Pts w/ anuria, severe renal failure, untreated hepatic coma, increasing azotemia, and electrolyte depletion can develop life threatening consequences

Question 5

Contraindications:

Answer 5

• Known sensitivity to sulfonamides or furosemide

Question 6

Dosage (Adult)
CHF and Pulmonary Edema:

Answer 6

• 20 to 40 mg IV, IO administered over 1-2 mins
• Starting dose: 40 mg in emergent situations. If satisfactory response is not achieved within 1 hour, give additional 80 mg
• Max single IV dose: 160-200 mg

Question 7

Dosage (Pediatric)
CHF and Pulmonary Edema:

Answer 7

• 1 mg/kg IV, IO, IM
• If first dose is not satisfactory, give additional dose of 2 mg/kg no sooner than 2 hours after first dose

Question 8

Dosage (Adult)
Hypertensive Emergency:

Answer 8

• 40 mg IV, IO

Question 9

Dosage (Pediatric)
Hypertensive Emergency:

Answer 9

• 1 mg/kg IV, IM

Question 10

Special Considerations:

Answer 10

• Onset of action for IV, IO administration occurs within 5 mins and will peak within 30 mins
• Furosemide is a diuretic, so the Pt will likely have urinary urgency