NURS 1556 Clinical Medications Worksheets
Generic Name Trade Name Classification
Furosemide Lasix Diuretics—loop diuretic
Peak Onset Duration
1-2 hours 30- 60 minutes 6- 8 hours
(Why med ordered)
Edema due to heart failure, hepatic impairment or renal
disease, hypertension. Ordered for: Hypertension, Edema
Mechanism of action and indications
Inhibits reabsorption of sodium and chloride from the loop
of Henle and distal renal tubules. Increases renal excretion
of water, sodium, chloride, magnesium, potassium, and
calcium. Effectiveness persists in impaired renal function.
Diuresis and subsequent mobilization of excess fluid.
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically)
Pt on Metoprolol which Increases risk of hypotension with
this antihypertensive.
Nursing Process- Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment)
Assess fluid status, daily weight, intake and output,
amount and location of edema, lung sounds, skin turgor,
and mucous membranes. Monitor blood pressure and pulse
before and during. Monitor pt for fall risk.
Dose Route Time/frequency
20 mg PO Every day
For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and /or
solutions
N/A
Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity, cross-sensitivity with thiazides and
sulfonamides, geri patients have increased risk of side effects-
hypotension, electrolyte imbalance.
Common side effects
Blurred vision, dizziness, headache, vertigo, hearing loss,
hypotension, constipation, dry mouth, nausea, excessive
urination, pruritis, rash, hyperglycemia, hypokalemia,
hypomagnesemia, hypocalcemia, hyponatremia, hypovalemia,
metabolic alkalosis, and increased BUN
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
Monitor electrolytes, renal and hepatic function, serum glucose,
and uric acid levels before and periodically throughout therapy.
Commonly decrease serum potassium, sodium, calcium, and
magnesium concentrations. May increase BUN, serum glucose,
creatinine and uric acid levels.
Be sure to teach the patient the following about
this medication
Have Pt change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic
hypotension, consult a health care professional about a diet,
notify professional if weight gain of more than 3 pounds in one
day, before taking OTC’s, before surgery and if muscle
weakness. Where sunscreen when going outside for fresh air,
and have routine follow-up exams.
Assessment Evaluation
Why would you hold or not Check after giving
give this med? Monitor blood pressure
Monitor for decreased blood and pulse. Monitor for
pressure if too low hold the med and nausea, vomiting,
contact the primary care provider. muscle cramps,
paresthesia and
confusion.