A Patient with Chronic Congestive Heart Failure Has Repeated Hospitalizations

question 4

Multiple Choice

A patient with chronic congestive heart failure has repeated hospitalizations in spite of ongoing treatment with hydrochlorothiazide [HydroDIURIL] and digoxin. The prescriber has ordered spironolactone [Aldactone] to be added to this patient's drug regimen, and the nurse provides education about this medication. Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching?

• A) "I can expect improvement within a few hours after taking this drug."
• B) "I need to stop taking potassium supplements."
• C) "I should use salt substitutes to prevent toxic side effects."
• D) "I should watch closely for dehydration."

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Definitions:

Nursing Documentation

The detailed recording of all nursing care, including assessments, interventions, and outcomes, provided to a patient.

Urine Output

The amount of urine expelled by the kidneys over a defined period, an important indicator of kidney and overall health.

Ambulating

The act of walking or moving from one place to another, often used in a medical or rehabilitation context.

Objective Data

Information gathered through observation or measurement that is not influenced by personal feelings or opinions.