Generic Name Trade Classification Dose Route Time/frequency

furosemide Name loop diuretics 20 mg PO BID

Lasix
Peak Onset Duration
30 min 5 min 2 hr
Why is your patient getting this medication
Peripheral edema
Mechanism of action and indications
(Why med ordered)
Inhibits the reabsorption of sodium and chloride from the
loop of Henle and distal renal tubule. Increases renal
excretion of water, sodium, chloride, magnesium, hydrogen,
and calcium. May have renal and peripheral vasodilatory
effects. Effectiveness persists in impaired renal function.
Indicated for Edema due to CHF, Hepatic or renal disease, or
hypertention.
Interactions with other patient drugs, OTC or
herbal medicines (ask patient specifically)
Increased risk of hypokalemia with corticosteroids,
Nursing Process- Assessment Assessment
(Pre-administration assessment) Why would you hold or not give
Monitor blood pressure and pulse before and this med?
during administration. Assess for allergy to Dehydration, excessive weight gain
sulfonamides. Assess fluid status during
therapy. Monitor daily weight, intake and
output ratios, amount and location of edema,
lung sounds, skin turgor, and mucous
membranes.
Normal dosage range
20-80 mg/day as a single dose initially, may repeat in
6-8 hr; may increase dose by 20-40mg q 6 hours until
desired response.
For IV meds, compatibility with IV drips and/or
solutions
N/A
Nursing Implications (what to focus on)
Contraindications/warnings/interactions
Hypersensitivity, Pre-existing electrolyte imbalance, Use
cautiously in: Severe liver disease (may precipitate hepatic coma;
concurrent use with potassium-sparing diuretics may be
necessary), Electrolyte depletion,
Common side effects
dehydration, hypochloremia, hypokalemia, hypomagnesemia,
hyponatremia, hypovolemia, metabolic alkalosis
Lab value alterations caused by medicine
May cause ↓ serum potassium, calcium, and magnesium
concentrations. May also cause ↑ BUN, serum glucose, creatinine,
and uric acid levels
Be sure to teach the patient the following about this
medication
Caution patient to change positions slowly to minimize orthostatic
hypotension. Instruct patient to consult health care professional
regarding a diet high in potassium. Advise patient to consult
health care professional before taking OTC medication or herbal
products concurrently with this therapy. Instruct patient to notify
health care professional of medication regimen before treatment
or surgery. Caution patient to use sunscreen and protective
clothing to prevent photosensitivity reactions.
Evaluation
Check after giving
Decrease in edema,
increase in urinary output