Question

JQ, a 58-year-old patient, has been recently diagnosed with hypertension. His resting blood pressure is 158/92. He is prescribed hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/day and is told to eat foods rich in potassium.
1. How does hydrochlorothiazide differ from furosemide? What are their similarities and differences?
2. Why is it necessary for JQ to eat foods rich in potassium when taking hydrochlorothiazide? Explain your answer.
3. What nursing interventions should be considered while JQ takes hydrochlorothiazide?
    After 1 month on hydrochlorothiazide therapy, JQ becomes weak and complains of nausea and vomiting. His muscles are “soft,” and his serum potassium level is 3.3 mEq/L. JQ’s diuretic is changed to triamterene and hydrochlorothiazide. Again, he is advised to eat foods rich in potassium.
4. Explain the rationale for changing JQ’s diuretic.
5. Should JQ receive a potassium supplement? Explain your answer.
6. What nursing interventions should the nurse follow for JQ?
7. What care plan should the nurse develop for JQ in relation to patient teaching?
8. What medical follow-up care is needed for JQ?