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Biology-Related Homework Help Medicine Topic started by: marti318 on Jan 25, 2018



Title: A patient is taking spironolactone and comes to the clinic complaining of weakness and tingling of ...
Post by: marti318 on Jan 25, 2018
A patient is taking spironolactone and comes to the clinic complaining of weakness and tingling of the hands and feet. The primary care NP notes a heart rate of 62 beats per minute and a blood pressure of 100/58 mm Hg. The NP should:
 
  a. obtain a serum drug level.
  b. order an electrocardiogram (ECG) and serum electrolytes.
  c. change the medication to a thiazide diuretic.
  d. question the patient about potassium intake.


Title: A patient is taking spironolactone and comes to the clinic complaining of weakness and tingling of ...
Post by: Ayasan123 on Jan 25, 2018
B
The patient is showing signs of hyperkalemia, so the NP should order an ECG and serum electrolytes. This should be done before changing the medication. Because hyperkalemia can cause fatal arrhythmias, an ECG is necessary.