What is the anticipated side effect of furosemide that a nurse should monitor for?

Furosemide, which is a loop diuretic commonly used to treat conditions such as heart failure and edema, has several side effects that result from its mechanism of action, which includes significant fluid and electrolyte loss. One anticipated side effect that a nurse should specifically monitor for is dizziness upon standing. This occurs due to orthostatic hypotension, which can result from the rapid diuresis and subsequent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance induced by furosemide.

As the body loses fluids, blood volume decreases, leading to a drop in blood pressure, which can manifest as dizziness or light-headedness, especially when a patient changes position from sitting or lying down to standing. Monitoring for this effect is particularly important in patients who may already have compromised cardiovascular status, the elderly, or those taking other medications that can also lower blood pressure.

The other options, such as increased appetite, excessive salivation, and loss of smell, are not commonly associated with the use of furosemide and do not reflect its pharmacological effects or the physiological changes that occur with its administration. This understanding is crucial for appropriately monitoring patients and managing any side effects they may experience while on furosemide.