Which of the following patients on a geriatric medical unit is most likely to require slow-release potassium supplements on a regular basis?
A) A 90-year-old female who is taking an aldosterone antagonist to treat pulmonary edema
B) An 81-year-old male who takes a thiazide diuretic to control his hypertension
C) A 79-year-old male with heart failure who is receiving a loop diuretic
D) An 83-year-old female who is taking an osmotic diuretic to address severe peripheral edema

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A common side effect of thiazide diuretics is increased potassium losses in the urine, which may necessitate potassium supplementation. Aldosterone antagonists, loop diuretics, and osmotic diuretics are less likely to induce hypokalemia.

Which of the Following Patients on a Geriatric Medical Unit