What is the expected action for a nurse when a client with hypokalemia is prescribed furosemide?

In a case where a client with hypokalemia is prescribed furosemide, it is crucial for the nurse to notify the healthcare provider of the lab values. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to further potassium depletion and exacerbate hypokalemia. The medication promotes increased urine output, which can accelerate the loss of potassium from the body.

When a patient is already presenting with low potassium levels, using furosemide without addressing the hypokalemia could potentially place the patient at risk for serious complications, such as arrhythmias or other cardiac issues associated with low potassium levels. Thus, communicating the lab results to the healthcare provider is vital to ensure that proper interventions occur, such as adjusting the medication plan or supplementing potassium before administration.

This proactive approach prioritizes patient safety by ensuring that the provider is aware of the potassium levels and can make appropriate decisions regarding the management of both the hypokalemia and the need for diuretic therapy.