The nurse prepares to administer the third dose of aldactone (Spironolactone) to a patient with cirrhosis and ascites. What should cause the nurse to question the administration of this medication?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

1. The serum creatinine of 1.6 mmol/L is within normal limits.
2. The serum sodium of 130 mEq/l, even though it is low, does not meet the criteria to hold the medication.
3. The nurse anticipates this potassium-sparing diuretic may be discontinued if the potassium level is greater than 5.3 mEq/L. This medication needs to be held or discontinued as this patient's potassium level is 5.7 mEq/L.
4. A weight gain of 0.2 kg is not an indication to hold diuretics. The objective of diuretics is to reduce the ascites and peripheral edema.

The Nurse Prepares to Administer the Third Dose of Aldactone