A patient is prescribed furosemide. Which intervention should the nurse prioritize to monitor and prevent potential complications associated with this medication?

A. Administering additional sodium supplements: Furosemide increases sodium excretion in the urine. Adding sodium supplements would counteract the diuretic effect and may worsen fluid retention or blood pressure control. B. Monitoring serum potassium levels regularly: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that causes potassium loss through the kidneys. Hypokalemia can lead to muscle weakness and dangerous cardiac dysrhythmias. Regular potassium monitoring is essential to detect and prevent this complication. C. Encouraging increased fluid intake: Excessive fluid intake may reduce the effectiveness of diuresis and worsen edema or heart failure symptoms. Fluid intake should be guided by the patient’s clinical condition, not routinely increased. D. Assess for episodes of hypertension: Furosemide lowers blood pressure rather than causing hypertension. The nurse should monitor for hypotension instead, making this option less relevant to preventing medication-related complications.