Which electrolyte balance should be monitored in a patient taking the diuretic Diuril?

Which electrolyte balance should be monitored in a patient taking the diuretic Diuril?

• A. Calcium
• B. Zinc
• C. Potassium
• D. Sodium

Answer: (C)

Thiazide diuretics like Diuril promote sodium and water loss in the distal tubule and also increase potassium excretion there. Because losing potassium can lead to muscle weakness and, more seriously, cardiac arrhythmias, the electrolyte balance you monitor most with this drug is potassium. While calcium reabsorption can rise with thiazides, and sodium levels can be affected, the primary and most clinically important concern is preventing hypokalemia. Zinc isn't affected by this diuretic, so it isn’t the focus of monitoring in this context.

Thiazide diuretics like Diuril promote sodium and water loss in the distal tubule and also increase potassium excretion there. Because losing potassium can lead to muscle weakness and, more seriously, cardiac arrhythmias, the electrolyte balance you monitor most with this drug is potassium. While calcium reabsorption can rise with thiazides, and sodium levels can be affected, the primary and most clinically important concern is preventing hypokalemia. Zinc isn't affected by this diuretic, so it isn’t the focus of monitoring in this context.