In a client receiving furosemide, which symptom indicates potential hypokalemia?

Leg cramps are indicative of potential hypokalemia in a client receiving furosemide. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water by inhibiting the reabsorption of these electrolytes in the loop of Henle in the kidneys. This effect can lead to an imbalance in electrolyte levels, particularly potassium.

Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is a common side effect of diuretics like furosemide, as the drug increases urinary potassium loss. One of the hallmark symptoms of hypokalemia is muscle cramps or spasms, which often manifest as leg cramps. These cramps occur because potassium is vital for proper muscle function and nerve impulse transmission. When potassium levels drop, it can lead to increased excitability of nerve tissue and impaired neuromuscular function, resulting in muscle cramping.

Understanding these physiological connections is crucial for recognizing the signs of electrolyte imbalances in patients on diuretics. The other symptoms listed—headache, bloating, and skin rash—are not directly related to hypokalemia and can arise from various other conditions or medications without specifically indicating low potassium levels.