Treatment With Diuretics

Question 1

Diuretics are used to decrease ____________ and to decrease ________ overload.

Answer 1

Blood pressure; symptoms of fluid

Question 2

The mechanism of action for diuretics involves ________ excretion of one or more _________ and where the electrolytes go, water will follow. This means the nurse needs to be aware of the potential for __________ imbalances in patients receiving diuretic therapy.

Answer 2

Increasing; electrolytes; electrolyte

Question 3

If a patient loses too much fluid, they will become dehydrated. When monitoring hydration status, _______ changes are the best indicator of fluid status when you have a prior _______ for comparison. A gain of more than _______ in _____ is considered symptomatic of fluid retention and the provider should be contacted.

Answer 3

Weight; weight; 3 pounds; 24 hours

Question 4

• Assess symptoms of the condition being treated (hypertension or fluid overload).
• Assess for dehydration & electrolytes imbalance (dry mouth, thirst, weakness, muscle pains or cramps, muscle fatigue, low urine output, tachycardia, arrhythmia, or N&V).
• Assess for hypotension.

Answer 4

monitor: diuretics

Question 5

• Hold the diuretic medication
  and consult provider if the patient is dehydrated and/or hypotensive.
• Administer the last dose of the day by 4pm to avoid needing to urinate frequently at night.
• Provide toileting assistance as needed.

Answer 5

do: Diuretics

Question 6

• Safety precautions related to
  potential hypotension and dizziness with position changes, fall risk.
• Teach to take early in the day.
• Report s/s fluid overload including weight gain of > 3 pounds/24 hours.

Answer 6

teach: diuretics