The loop diuretic furosemide is prescribed for a client with a history of heart failure (HF). Which foods should the nurse encourage this client to eat?
Explanation & Rationale
A) Cheese, milk, and yogurt: These foods are high in calcium and may not be the best choice for a client taking furosemide, as they can contribute to calcium levels and potentially exacerbate hypercalcemia, which is a risk with loop diuretic use. B) Bananas, oranges, and peaches: This is the correct response. These fruits are rich in potassium, which is often depleted in clients taking loop diuretics like furosemide. Encouraging foods high in potassium can help replenish electrolytes and prevent hypokalemia. C) Pasta, cereal, and bread: While these foods are generally well-tolerated and can provide carbohydrates for energy, they do not specifically address the electrolyte imbalances associated with loop diuretic use. D) Liver, beef, and chicken: These foods are good sources of protein but do not directly address the electrolyte imbalances associated with loop diuretic use. Therefore, encouraging the client to consume foods rich in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, and peaches, can help offset the potassium loss caused by furosemide and mitigate the risk of hypokalemia.