Author Question: Besides having diuretic effects for patients with congestive heart failure, thiazides are also used ... (Read 69 times)

elizabeth18 · **on:** Jul 23, 2018

Besides having diuretic effects for patients with congestive heart failure, thiazides are also used to treat what? (Select all that apply.)

a. Diabetes insipidus
b. Hepatic failure
c. Increased intracranial pressure
d. Intraocular pressure
e. Postmenopausal osteoporosis

Question 2

A patient with chronic congestive heart failure has repeated hospitalizations in spite of ongoing treatment with hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) and digoxin.

The prescriber has ordered spironolactone (Aldactone) to be added to this patient's drug regimen, and the nurse provides education about this medication. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching?
a. I can expect improvement within a few hours after taking this drug.
b. I need to stop taking potassium supplements.
c. I should use salt substitutes to prevent toxic side effects.
d. I should watch closely for dehydration.

nikmaaacs · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 23, 2018

Answer to Question 1

ANS: A, B, E
Thiazide diuretics have the paradoxical effect of reducing urine output in patients with diabetes insipidus. They can also be used to mobilize edema associated with liver disease. They promote tubular reabsorption of calcium, which may reduce the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women. Mannitol is used to treat edema that causes increased intracranial pressure and intraocular pressure.

Answer to Question 2

ANS: B
Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic used to counter the potassium-wasting effects of hydrochlorothiazide s. Patients taking potassium supplements are at risk for hyperkalemia when taking this medication, so they should be advised to stop the supplements. Spironolactone takes up to 48 hours to have effects. Salt substitutes contain high levels of potassium and are contraindicated. Spironolactone is a weak diuretic, so the risk of dehydration is not increased.