loop diuretics- furosemide ( lasix)

Question 1

name a loop diuretic

Answer 1

furosemide (lasix)

Question 2

what is furosemide (lasix) used to treat

Answer 2

pulmonary edema
edema caused by renal; hepatic; or cardiac failure

Question 3

adverse drug reactions when on furosemide (lasix)

Answer 3

hypokalemia
dehydration
ototoxicity
increased uric acid levels – gouty arthritis

Question 4

interventions when on furosemide (lasix)

Answer 4

if hypokalemia occurs– monitor cardiac dysrhythmias

if hypokalemia is a risk ( client also taking digoxin) furosemide (lasix) can be combined with a potassium-sparing diuretic

monitor BP

monitor for hearing loss ; tinnitus; vertigo

monitor Blood glucose

monitor uric acid levels

Question 5

if client is on a diuretic while also taking digoxin what kind of diuretic could be prescribed

Answer 5

potassium sparing diuretic

Question 6

how can furosemide (lasix) be administered

Answer 6

oral form with food
if second dose is needed give second dose by early afternoon
administer slowly if given by IV

Question 7

why should a second dose of furosemide (lasix) be given by early afternoon

Answer 7

to prevent nocturia and sleep loss

Question 8

why should furosemide (lasix) be given slowly if administered through IV

Answer 8

to prevent ototoxicity

Question 9

client instructions when on furosemide (lasix)

Answer 9

eat foods rich in potassium – bananas; citrus fruits; potatoes

report signs of electrolyte imbalance such as confusion; muscle twitching or weakness irregular pulse; and nausea

report dizziness; syncope

avoid hazardous activities- driving

report new onset of hearing loss; ringing in ears; or vertigo to provider

history of gout need to report symptom

Question 10

contraindications of furosemide (lasix)

Answer 10

anuria – non-passage of urine – kidney malfunction

Question 11

interactions of furosemide (lasix)

Answer 11

digoxin toxicity is a high risk with hypokalemia

NSAIDs

amphotericin B and corticosteroids

other ototoxic drugs

Question 12

what can NSAIDs cause when on furosemide (lasix)

Answer 12

decrease diuretic effect

Question 13

amphotericin B and corticosteroids increase risk for when on furosemide (lasix)

Answer 13

increase risk for hypokalemia

Question 14

what can other ototoxic drugs (eg. aminoglycoside antibiotics) increase risk for when on furosemide (lasix)

Answer 14

increase risk for ototoxicity