What should a nurse instruct a client taking furosemide to do to prevent hypokalemia?

Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes the excretion of water and electrolytes, including potassium, through the urine. When using furosemide, it is crucial for clients to maintain appropriate potassium levels to prevent hypokalemia, which can lead to serious complications such as muscle weakness, cramps, and cardiac issues.

Increasing the intake of potassium-rich foods is an important preventive measure against hypokalemia for clients taking furosemide. Foods such as bananas, oranges, spinach, potatoes, and avocados are high in potassium and can help offset the potassium loss associated with diuretic therapy. This dietary adjustment supports the maintenance of normal potassium levels in the body, thereby mitigating the risks of hypokalemia.

This approach directly addresses the issue of potassium depletion caused by furosemide and is a commonly recommended practice for patients on this medication, ensuring they have enough potassium in their diet to counterbalance the effects of the diuretic.