Flash CV. HTN. Diuretics

Loop diuretics are primarily indicated for the treatment of edema and fluid overload in patients with heart failure or other cardiovascular disorders.

Thiazide diuretics may cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) as a common side effect. HyperGLUC=Hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, Hyperuricemia and Hypercalcemia. HypoKM=Hypokalemia,Hypomagnesemia

Patients with renal impairment should receive potassium-sparing diuretics with caution, as these medications can lead to hyperkalemia (high potassium levels).

Nurses should monitor the patient's potassium levels regularly when loop diuretics and digoxin are used together, as hypokalemia can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity.

Thiazide diuretics are indicated as first-line therapy for hypertension, especially in patients without significant renal impairment or volume depletion.

Loop diuretics should be used cautiously in patients with a history of sulfa allergies, as cross-sensitivity reactions may occur.

Nurses should monitor the patient's potassium levels closely when potassium-sparing diuretics and ACE inhibitors are used together, as this combination can increase the risk of hyperkalemia.

Common side effects of potassium-sparing diuretics include gynecomastia (breast enlargement in males), menstrual irregularities, and breast tenderness in females.

Diuretics are used in acute decompensated heart failure to reduce fluid overload and improve respiratory distress and peripheral edema.

Elderly patients are more susceptible to electrolyte imbalances and dehydration, so diuretics should be used with caution and appropriate monitoring in this population.

Loop diuretics are preferred in patients with impaired renal function as they have a more profound diuretic effect and can work despite reduced kidney function.

Nurses should administer furosemide IV slowly to avoid rapid fluid shifts, which can lead to hypotension and other complications.

Spironolactone is indicated for heart failure patients with reduced ejection fraction to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Thiazides can exacerbate gout by raising serum uric acid levels, so patients with a history of gout may require additional medications to prevent gout attacks.

Nurses should closely monitor the patient's blood glucose levels as thiazide diuretics can cause hyperglycemia.

Diuretics are used in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy to reduce blood pressure and regress left ventricular hypertrophy.

Potassium supplements should be given in the evening to counteract the potassium-wasting effect of loop diuretics.

Diuretic doses may need to be adjusted on dialysis days to account for fluid removal during the procedure.

Diuretics are used in acute pulmonary edema to rapidly reduce fluid buildup in the lungs and improve respiratory distress.

Diuretics should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as they may cause adverse effects on the developing fetus.