Questions and Answers
What class of medication is Lasix (furosemide)?
What is the action of Lasix (furosemide)?
Reduces edema and increases urinary output.
What are the indications for using Lasix (furosemide)?
Which of the following are potential side effects of Lasix (furosemide)?
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Which substances interact with Lasix (furosemide)?
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Food interactions with Lasix (furosemide) involve potassium.
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What is the recommended oral dose of Lasix (furosemide) for hypertension?
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What is essential patient teaching for those on Lasix (furosemide)?
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Match the nursing implications for patients taking Lasix (furosemide):
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Study Notes
Lasix (Furosemide) Overview
- Classification: Diuretic; primarily used to increase urine output and reduce fluid retention.
Mechanism of Action
- Effectively reduces edema by promoting the excretion of water and electrolytes through increased urinary output.
Indications for Use
- Commonly prescribed for edema associated with heart failure, liver dysfunction, or kidney disease.
- Also indicated for managing hypertension.
Side Effects
- Potential side effects include:
- Dehydration: Loss of fluids that may require monitoring.
- Hypokalemia: Low potassium levels; can lead to serious health issues.
- Hypomagnesemia: Decreased magnesium levels in the blood.
- Hypovolemia: Decreased blood volume; could affect circulation.
- Metabolic Acidosis: A disturbance in the body's acid-base balance.
Drug Interactions
- Notable interactions that may affect Lasix efficacy or safety include:
- Corticosteroids: May exacerbate potassium loss.
- Antihypertensives: Combination may lead to hypotension.
- Alcohol: Can intensify side effects and dehydration.
- Nitrates: Risk of additive hypotensive effects.
- Digoxin: Increased risk of digoxin toxicity due to electrolyte imbalances.
Food Interactions
- Caution advised regarding potassium-rich foods; potassium levels may need to be monitored during therapy.
Dosage and Administration
-
Oral Dosage: Typically ranges from 20-80 mg per day.
- For hypertension, prescribed at 40 mg twice daily.
- For hypercalcemia, may escalate to 120 mg daily in divided doses.
Patient Education
- Emphasize adherence to prescribed dosing; missed doses should be taken as soon as remembered, avoiding double dosing.
- Advise patients to report rapid weight gain (more than 3 pounds in one day).
- Recommend gradual position changes to prevent orthostatic hypotension.
- Suggest use of sunscreen and protective wear to mitigate photo sensitivity.
- Instruct to consult healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter medications or herbal supplements.
Nursing Implications
- Essential to monitor blood pressure regularly.
- Assess patient’s fluid status and input/output (I/O) closely.
- Watch for signs of tinnitus or hearing loss, which can be side effects.
- Evaluate fall risk and implement safety measures to prevent falls.
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Description
This quiz features flashcards covering key information about Lasix (furosemide), including its class, action, indications, and side effects. Use these flashcards to enhance your understanding of this important diuretic and its clinical uses.
