Which of the following symptoms should be watched for a patient receiving a loop diuretic?

Question

Question

Answer 1

Correct Answer: Weak irregular pulse

Rationale:

Loop diuretics are medications that act on the kidneys to increase urine production, thus removing excess fluid from the body. They are commonly used to treat conditions like hypertension and edema associated with heart failure, renal disease, or liver disease.
One of the significant side effects of loop diuretics is the loss of important electrolytes, particularly potassium, through the urine. This can lead to hypokalemia, which is a condition characterized by low potassium levels in the blood.
A weak, irregular pulse is a key symptom of hypokalemia. Potassium is crucial for maintaining normal heart function, and its deficiency can lead to arrhythmias or abnormal heart rhythms, which can present as a weak and irregular pulse.

Explanation of Other Options:

Increased BP

Rationale: Increased blood pressure is not a typical symptom to watch for in patients receiving loop diuretics. In fact, loop diuretics are often prescribed to help lower blood pressure by reducing fluid volume and vascular resistance.

Restlessness and agitation

Rationale: While restlessness and agitation can be symptoms of various conditions, they are not specifically associated with the use of loop diuretics. These symptoms might be seen in conditions like anxiety, hyperthyroidism, or withdrawal from certain substances, but not directly due to loop diuretics.

Paresthesia

Rationale: Paresthesia, or the sensation of tingling or numbness, is generally not a primary concern with loop diuretics. It can occur due to various reasons, including nerve compression, diabetes, or vitamin deficiencies, but it is not a typical side effect of loop diuretics.

Conclusion:

Among the given options, a weak irregular pulse is the most critical symptom to watch for in a patient receiving loop diuretics. This symptom indicates potential hypokalemia, which can lead to serious cardiac complications if not addressed promptly. Regular monitoring of electrolyte levels and heart function is essential for patients on loop diuretics to prevent and manage this risk.