Diuretic & Cardiac Drugs Overview
42 Questions
4 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

Which of the following best describes the primary action of diuretics on the extracellular fluid (ECF)?

  • Affect the maintenance of ECF through kidney filtration, reabsorption, and secretion. (correct)
  • Facilitate rapid secretion of all electrolytes.
  • Increase reabsorption of sodium and water.
  • Cause widespread fluid retention.
  • A patient is prescribed furosemide. What is a crucial lab value that should be checked before administering this medication?

  • Magnesium level
  • Potassium level (correct)
  • Sodium level
  • Chloride level
  • Which of the following is the most accurate description of Furosemide's mechanism of action?

  • It inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the ascending Loop of Henle. (correct)
  • It increases the secretion of potassium in the collecting duct.
  • It acts to promote reabsorption of water in the collecting duct.
  • It increases the reabsorption of sodium in the distal tubule.
  • What is the approximate normal glomerular filtration rate (GFR)?

    <p>125 mL/hr (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which diuretic is best suited for a patient with mild to moderate heart failure, particularly if they are also of African American descent?

    <p>Hydrochlorothiazide (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an expected adverse effect of furosemide that requires monitoring, and may necessitate dietary changes or supplements?

    <p>Hypokalemia (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide. Which electrolyte imbalance is a common side effect that the nurse should monitor for?

    <p>Hypokalemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why are patients taking hydrochlorothiazide often advised to increase their potassium intake?

    <p>To prevent hypokalemia caused by the diuretic (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a normal urine output per hour?

    <p>30 mL/hr or greater (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient is receiving mannitol for increased intracranial pressure. Which of the following indicates the medication is working as expected?

    <p>Improved mental status with decreased ICP (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient is taking furosemide and digoxin. Which of the following is a significant drug-drug interaction to monitor?

    <p>Increased risk of digoxin toxicity due to low potassium. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the mechanism of action of spironolactone?

    <p>Blocks the action of aldosterone in the distal nephron, leading to potassium retention (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which situation would indicate the use of furosemide?

    <p>For massive movement of fluids and diuresis, such as acute/CHF (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient with a history of gout is prescribed a diuretic. Which diuretic would require the most careful monitoring for potential exacerbation of their gout?

    <p>Hydrochlorothiazide (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is Mannitol typically administered and why?

    <p>Intravenously, as an infusion due to its mechanism of action (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a primary risk when combining hydrochlorothiazide with other antihypertensive medications?

    <p>Increased risk of hypotension (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a significant adverse effect of spironolactone (Aldactone) that requires careful monitoring?

    <p>Hyperkalemia (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient on spironolactone (Aldactone) is also prescribed an ACE inhibitor. Which of the following is the most appropriate action?

    <p>Administer both medications but monitor potassium levels cautiously. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary way that triamterene (Dyrenium) exerts its diuretic effect?

    <p>By directly disrupting the sodium-potassium exchange in the distal nephron. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient is prescribed potassium chloride (KCl) for hypokalemia. What is an important consideration when administering the intravenous form of this drug?

    <p>Dilute the solution in an appropriate volume of IV fluids before administration. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following medications is classified as a Non-Aldosterone Sparing Diuretic?

    <p>Triamterene (Dyrenium) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    A patient is prescribed both spironolactone (Aldactone) and an ACE inhibitor. Which of the following should the patient be educated to avoid?

    <p>Using salt substitutes. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the most appropriate use of triamterene given its diuretic properties?

    <p>To counteract potassium wasting effects of other diuretics. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common adverse effect of oral potassium chloride (KCl)?

    <p>Gastrointestinal irritation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of administering potassium (K) too quickly via IV?

    <p>Instant death (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following symptoms can signal hyperkalemia?

    <p>Dyspnea (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done with food and medications that contain potassium if hyperkalemia is suspected?

    <p>Withhold their use (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which intervention is effective in counteracting the cardiotoxic effects of hyperkalemia?

    <p>Infuse calcium gluconate (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the maximum rate for intravenous administration of potassium chloride (KCl) to prevent adverse effects?

    <p>10 meq per hour (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medication should be avoided in patients with hyperkalemia due to its potassium-sparing properties?

    <p>Spironolactone (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does administering insulin with glucose have in treating high potassium levels?

    <p>Forces potassium into cells (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should be done if a patient is experiencing vomiting and diarrhea regarding potassium levels?

    <p>Check potassium levels before administering anything (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary classification of atropine?

    <p>Anticholinergic drug (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a typical use of atropine?

    <p>Hypertension management (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mechanism does prazosin act upon to decrease blood pressure?

    <p>Inhibiting alpha 1 receptors (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which adverse effect is most commonly associated with beta blockade?

    <p>Bradycardia (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should a patient be educated about regarding the rapid withdrawal of beta blockers?

    <p>It may cause angina or ventricular dysrhythmias (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which effect is expected after administering atropine for bradycardia?

    <p>Increase in both heart rate and blood pressure (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which drug class does propranolol belong to?

    <p>Nonselective beta blocker (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a major reason for nonadherence to prazosin treatment?

    <p>Impotence (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the major adverse effects of atropine?

    <p>Blurred vision (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following interactions should be monitored when administering propranolol?

    <p>Calcium channel blockers (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Flashcards

    Thiazide diuretic

    A class of diuretics that block the reabsorption of sodium and chloride in the early part of the distal convoluted tubule.

    Osmotic diuretic

    A type of diuretic that is effective in preventing or slowing down the onset of renal failure in severe hypertension.

    K+-sparing diuretic

    A type of diuretic that blocks aldosterone's action in the distal nephron.

    Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL)

    A thiazide diuretic commonly used as a first-line treatment for hypertension, especially in African Americans.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Mannitol (Osmitrol)

    An osmotic diuretic used to prevent or slow down the onset of renal failure in severe hypertension, as well as to reduce intracranial pressure caused by cerebral edema.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Spironolactone (Aldactone)

    A K+-sparing diuretic that blocks the action of aldosterone, preventing its sodium retention and potassium excretion.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Where do thiazide diuretics act?

    The early segment of the distal convoluted tubule.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the mechanism of action of K+-sparing diuretics?

    To promote retention of potassium and excretion of sodium.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are diuretics?

    Diuretics are drugs that increase urine output, also known as diuresis.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is considered normal urine output?

    Normal urine output is considered to be at least 30 ml per hour.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is furosemide (Lasix) and how does it work?

    A potent loop diuretic that inhibits sodium and chloride reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle, leading to increased urine output and reduced edema and blood pressure.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    When is furosemide (Lasix) typically used?

    Furosemide is a powerful diuretic used for significant fluid removal in conditions like heart failure and edema.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How does furosemide (Lasix) interact with digoxin?

    Furosemide can cause low potassium levels (hypokalemia), which can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is a potential side effect of combining furosemide with aminoglycosides?

    Furosemide can cause hearing loss when combined with other ototoxic medications, such as aminoglycosides.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is a potential side effect of combining furosemide with other blood pressure medications?

    Furosemide can cause low blood pressure, especially when combined with other antihypertensive drugs.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How can patients manage potential side effects of furosemide?

    Furosemide is most effective when patients consume potassium-rich foods and supplements to help mitigate the potential for hypokalemia.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Atropine's Mechanism of Action

    Muscarinic antagonists selectively block the effects of acetylcholine at the muscarinic receptors.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Atropine: Uses

    Bradycardia in ICU (low BP, dizziness/syncope, Cognitive changes), surgical pretreatment to prevent bradycardia during surgery. HR/BP should both rise (doesn't happen w/heart damage), dry secretions pre-surgical, Not used in HTN

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Atropine: Adverse Effects

    Dry mouth, blurred vision, photophobia, elevation of intraocular pressure, urinary retention, anhidrosis (inability to sweat), tachycardia

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Prazosin's Mechanism of Action

    Inhibits alpha 1 receptors (arterioles/veins), causes vasodilation, resulting in decreased BP/CO

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Prazosin: Uses

    Essential HTN, BPH, Raynaud's

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Prazosin: Adverse Effects

    Dizziness, HA, drowsiness, impotence (alpha 1 blockage inhibits ejaculation, reflex tachycardia, nasal congestion, edema/postural hypotension), OH

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beta Blockade: Uses

    Angina, HTN (but not as effective as once thought), cardiac dysrhythmias (SA node, sinus tachy/PAC's), MI, HF

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beta Blockade: Therapeutic Effects

    Reduced HR, peripheral vascular resistance w/long term use, force of contraction, speed of AV conduction

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Beta Blockade: Adverse Effects

    Bradycardia, reduced CO, precipitation of HF, AV heart block

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Propranolol: Mechanism of Action

    Blocks adrenergic receptors in the cardiac (beta 1), lungs (beta 2)/renal (beta 1); suppresses renin secretion, Therapeutic action: antihypertensive, reduces HR, CO used in MI, CAD, HTN, cardiac dysrhythmias

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the mechanism of action of Triamterene (Dyrenium)?

    A type of diuretic that directly blocks sodium-potassium exchange in the distal nephron, leading to increased potassium levels in the blood.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is Triamterene (Dyrenium) mainly used for?

    A medication used for hypertension and edema, but it has minimal diuretic effect, making it often used with other diuretics to counteract potassium loss.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is hyperkalemia?

    A condition where your blood potassium level is too high. It can cause an irregular heartbeat and other heart problems, potentially even fatal.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are potassium supplements?

    Medications that are used to replenish potassium levels in the body.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are K-sparing diuretics?

    A type of medication that blocks aldosterone's action, preventing sodium retention and potassium excretion, helping to prevent hypokalemia.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is the mechanism of action of Spironolactone (Aldactone)?

    A type of diuretic that inhibits aldosterone's action at the collecting duct of the nephron, leading to increased potassium retention and sodium excretion.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What medications should be used with caution while taking Aldactone (Spironolactone)?

    It is essential to use caution when combining Aldactone (Spironolactone) with certain medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, and direct renin inhibitors.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What medications should never be given with Aldactone (Spironolactone)?

    Never give Aldactone (Spironolactone) with potassium supplements, salt substitutes, or other potassium-sparing medications, as this can lead to dangerous hyperkalemia.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What is Potassium (K+) and why is it important?

    Potassium (K+) is a mineral that is essential for proper nerve and muscle function and for maintaining a healthy heartbeat. Low potassium levels can lead to various complications such as irregular heartbeats, muscle weakness, and fatigue.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why is high potassium (hyperkalemia) dangerous?

    High potassium levels (hyperkalemia) can be dangerous and even life-threatening. It can cause heart rhythm problems, weakness, and numbness. This is why monitoring potassium levels is crucial in medical settings.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why are large potassium pills a concern?

    Large potassium pills can potentially lead to dangerous complications if not swallowed properly. They can cause irritation or even ulcers in the digestive tract, potentially resulting in bleeding or perforation.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How should liquid potassium (KCl) be administered?

    Liquid potassium (KCl) should always be diluted in juice or water according to instructions. Never administer it undiluted as it can irritate the stomach and cause severe complications.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How is IV potassium (KCL) administered safely?

    IV potassium (KCL) should only be administered through a drip, never pushed directly into a vein. The maximum safe rate is 10 meq per hour to avoid potentially fatal heart rhythm disturbances. Never add KCL to an existing IV line.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Why is it critical to check potassium levels before administering potassium?

    Before administering any potassium, check blood potassium levels (K) three times. This is crucial to avoid dangerous levels and ensure safety.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    What are some common ways potassium can be lost from the body?

    Potassium is lost through various processes like vomiting, diarrhea, wound drainage, and prolonged diuretic use or diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). These conditions can lead to low potassium levels.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    How do we manage high potassium levels (hyperkalemia)?

    To address high potassium (hyperkalemia), several steps can be taken: 1) Withhold potassium-containing foods and medications, including K-sparing diuretics (spironolactone/triamterene). 2) Infuse calcium gluconate IV to counteract cardiotoxicity. 3) Infuse insulin and glucose to force K into cells. 4) Infuse sodium bicarbonate to increase pH and increase cellular intake of K. 5) Administer oral or enema Kayexalate (sodium polystyrene sulfonate) to remove K. 6) Consider peritoneal or hemodialysis to remove K.

    Signup and view all the flashcards

    Study Notes

    Diuretic & Cardiac Drugs

    • Diuretics increase urine output (diuresis)
    • Normal urine output is 30 mL/hour or greater
    • Normal GFR is 125 mL/hr
    • Normal output is about 60 mL/hr
    • GFR of 1 mL/min equals 60 mL/hr
    • Diuretics primarily manage extracellular fluid (ECF) by influencing kidney filtration, reabsorption, and secretion processes

    Furosemide (Lasix)

    • Classification: Loop diuretic, potassium-wasting diuretic
    • Mechanism of Action (MOA): Rapid-acting loop diuretic inhibiting Na/Cl reabsorption in the ascending loop of Henle, reducing edema and blood pressure
    • Uses: Powerful diuretic for conditions like acute fluid overload and congestive heart failure (CHF). Thiazide diuretics are preferable if appropriate
    • Dosage/Route: Oral, intravenous (IV), intramuscular (IM), 20-80 mg; IV administered in 5 minutes, lasts 2 hours
    • Adverse Effects: Postural hypotension, hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia, hyperchloremia, nausea/vomiting (N/V), dehydration, tinnitus, aplastic anemia, circulatory collapse
    • Drug Interactions: Increases risk of digoxin toxicity with low potassium levels. Combinations with other ototoxic drugs can lead to hearing loss. Risk of hypotension if combined with other antihypertensives. Lithium can cause high sodium levels.
    • Patient Education: Monitor potassium (K) levels (3.5-5.0), blood pressure (BP) before administration (>110/60). Daily weight monitoring is crucial to assess treatment effectiveness (3+ lbs/few days suggests an infection). Close monitoring is necessary during high-volume diuresis due to risk of hypotension and circulatory collapse. Increase intake of potassium-rich foods and/or supplements (e.g., orange juice).

    Hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDiuril)

    • Classification: Thiazide diuretic, potassium-wasting diuretic
    • MOA: Blocks sodium/chloride reabsorption in the early distal convoluted tubule. Ineffective with GFR < 15-20 ml/min
    • Uses: Primarily used in hypertension, commonly a first-line treatment for African Americans. Helpful in mild to moderate heart failure (HF) for mobilizing edema also associated with liver or renal disorders.
    • Dosage/Route: Oral, dosage depends on the formulation
    • Adverse effects: Hyponatremia, hypochloremia, dehydration, hypokalemia, fetal harm (if taken during pregnancy/breastfeeding), elevated glucose levels (in diabetics), risk of gouty arthritis
    • Drug interactions: May increase risk of digoxin toxicity due to potassium loss. Synergistic (and dangerous) hypotension risk with other anti-hypertensive drugs
    • Patient Education: Avoid use in pregnancy, breastfeeding or those with gouty arthritis. Monitor blood levels of Na, Cl, & K; increase intake of potassium-rich foods and/or supplements

    Mannitol (Osmitrol)

    • Classification: Osmotic diuretic
    • MOA: Creates osmotic pressure in the proximal convoluted tubule, inhibiting water reabsorption, but having little effect on potassium excretion.
    • Uses: Preventing/reducing renal failure (RF) in severe hypertension, hypovolemic shock, and conditions associated with increased intracranial pressure (ICP), or intraocular pressure when treatment fails with other therapies
    • Dosage/Route: Intravenous (IV) infusion only in a hospital setting, 5-25% concentration (usually in warmed, crystalline form), adjusted dosage to attain a urine output of 30-50 ml/min, measured using hydrometers.
    • Adverse Effects: Headache (HA), nausea/vomiting (N/V), electrolyte imbalances, pulmonary edema/congestive heart failure (CHF) edema
    • Patient Education: This drug is only used intravenously

    Spironolactone (Aldactone)

    • Classification: Potassium-sparing diuretic, aldosterone antagonist
    • MOA: Blocks the action of aldosterone in the distal nephron, promoting sodium elimination and potassium retention.
    • Uses: Hypertension and edema; frequently combined with loop or thiazide diuretics for enhanced diuresis.
    • Adverse Effects: Hyperkalemia (>5.0) can lead to fatal cardiac dysrhythmias, (e.g., ventricular fibrillation). Endocrine effects (e.g., gynecomastia, menstrual irregularities) are possible due to structural similarity to steroid hormones
    • Drug interactions: Caution is required when combined with ACE inhibitors, ARBs (angiotensin receptor blockers), or direct renin inhibitors due to potential complications
    • Patient Education: Monitor potassium levels rigorously. Avoid use with other potassium-sparing medications or salt substitutes

    Triamterene (Dyrenium)

    • Classification: Potassium-sparing diuretic, non-aldosterone-sparing
    • MOA: Disrupts sodium-potassium exchange directly in the distal nephron
    • Uses: Hypertension/edema (less diuresis than other diuretics), counteracting the potassium-wasting properties of other diuretics
    • Adverse Effects: Nausea (N)/Vomiting (V), leg cramps, and dizziness. Hyperkalemia is a key concern
    • Drug interactions: Similar caution as listed for spironolactone
    • Patient Education: Monitor potassium levels. Avoid use with other potassium-sparing medications or salt substitutes.

    Potassium Chloride (K Supplement)

    • Classification: Potassium supplement
    • MOA: Replaces potassium, crucial for nerve impulse transmission and numerous other physiological processes.
    • Uses: Potassium replacement is necessary for a variety of conditions.

    Additional Drug Information

    • Digoxin (Digitialis): Cardiac glycoside. Increases force of myocardial contraction, aiding in conditions like atrial fibrillation (AFib) and congestive heart failure (CHF)

    • Atenolol: Beta blocker. Used in hypertension, angina and following a Myocardial infarction (MI)

    • Clonidine (Catapres): Central alpha-2 agonist. Used in hypertension.

    • Captopril, Enalapril, Lisinopril (ACE inhibitors): Used in hypertension and heart failure, inhibiting angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE)

    • Losartan (Cozaar): Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Used in hypertension

    • Verapamil (Calan): Calcium channel blocker. Used in hypertension, angina, certain dysrhythmias

    • Diltiazem (Cardizem): Calcium channel blocker. Used in hypertension, angina, and supraventricular tachycardia (SVT)

    • Nifedipine (Procardia): Calcium channel blocker. Used in hypertension and angina

    • Amlodipine (Norvasc): Calcium channel blocker. Used in hypertension and angina.

    • Hydralazine (Apresoline): Vasodilator, used in hypertension.

    • NitroGlycerin: Vasodilator, used to relieve angina (chest pain).

    • Important Note:* This summary provides general information about diuretics and cardiac drugs, which should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment recommendations.

    Studying That Suits You

    Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

    Quiz Team

    Related Documents

    Diuretic & Cardiac Drugs PDF

    Description

    Explore the key concepts surrounding diuretics and cardiac drugs in this informative quiz. Learn about their classifications, mechanisms of action, and clinical applications. This quiz is essential for anyone studying pharmacology or healthcare-related fields.

    More Like This

    Cardiovascular Pharmacology and Disorders Quiz
    5 questions
    Hypertension and diuretics Quiz
    97 questions
    Heart Failure Treatment and Diuretics
    10 questions

    Heart Failure Treatment and Diuretics

    OrganizedWatermelonTourmaline avatar
    OrganizedWatermelonTourmaline
    Cardiology Medications Quiz
    21 questions
    Use Quizgecko on...
    Browser
    Browser