Potent diuretics that act along the ascending limb of the loop of Henle; furosemide is an example
Loop diuretics
Abbreviation for the term that describes an index of how well the kidneys are functioning as filters
GFR
A general term for drugs that accelerate the rate of urine formation
Diuretics
The main structural unit of the kidney
nephron
A term for diuretics that cause the body to lose potassium
Kaliuretic diuretics
Diuretics that result in the diuresis of sodium and water and the retention of potassium; spironolactone is an example
Potassium-sparing diuretic
Diuretics that act on the distal convoluted tubule, where they inhibit sodium and water resorption; HCTZ is an example
Thiazides
Abbreviation for a class of diuretics that inhibit the enzyme carbonic anhydrase; acetazolamide is an example
CAIs
Drugs that induce diuresis by increasing the osmotic pressure of the glomerular filtrate, which results in a rapid diuresis; mannitol is an example
Osmotic diuretics
An abnormal intraperitoneal accumulation of fluid
ascites
Which of the following are indications for the use of diuretics? Select all that apply.
A. to increase urine output
c. to treat hypertension
d. to treat open-angle glaucoma
e. to treat edema associated with heart failure
When providing patient teaching to a patient who is taking a potassium-sparing diuretic such as spironolactone (Aldactone), the nurse should include which dietary guidelines?
A. the patient should avoid foods high in potassium
When teaching a patient about diuretic therapy, the nurse notes that which of the following is the best time of day to take these medications?
D. Morning
When monitoring a patient for hypokalemia related to diuretic use, the nurse looks for which possible symptoms?
B. Muscle weakness and lethargy
A patient with severe heart failure has been started on therapy with a CAI, but the nurse mentions that this medication may be stopped in a few days. Which of the following is the reason for this short treatment?
B. CAIs lose their diuretic effect in 2 to 4 days because metabolic acidosis develops