Loop diuretics commonly cause which electrolyte disturbances, and what monitoring is essential?

Loop diuretics commonly cause which electrolyte disturbances, and what monitoring is essential?

• A. Hyperkalemia, hypernatremia; monitor potassium, sodium, creatinine.
• B. Hypocalcemia; monitor calcium.
• C. Hypokalemia, hyponatremia, dehydration; monitor potassium, magnesium, creatinine, BP, I&O.
• D. Hypermagnesemia; monitor magnesium.

Answer: (C)

Loop diuretics increase the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water in the kidney, which also drives potassium and magnesium loss. This typically leads to low potassium (hypokalemia), low sodium (hyponatremia) with volume depletion (dehydration). Because these changes can affect heart rhythm and fluid balance, careful monitoring is essential: watch potassium and magnesium levels, since their losses raise arrhythmia risk; monitor creatinine to assess kidney function and the impact of diuresis on renal perfusion; and keep an eye on blood pressure and intake/output to gauge hydration and hemodynamic status.

Loop diuretics increase the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water in the kidney, which also drives potassium and magnesium loss. This typically leads to low potassium (hypokalemia), low sodium (hyponatremia) with volume depletion (dehydration). Because these changes can affect heart rhythm and fluid balance, careful monitoring is essential: watch potassium and magnesium levels, since their losses raise arrhythmia risk; monitor creatinine to assess kidney function and the impact of diuresis on renal perfusion; and keep an eye on blood pressure and intake/output to gauge hydration and hemodynamic status.