The nurse is assessing a client prescribed chlorothiazide (Diuril). Which clinical manifestation found upon assessment is an indication of hypokalemia?

Question

1. Confusion and decreased urine output
2. General irritability and increased urine output
3. Muscle weakness or cramps
4. Diarrhea and projectile vomiting

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 3
Rationale 1: Confusion might accompany hypokalemia, but decreased urine output is not a sign of hypokalemia.
Rationale 2: Neither general irritability nor increased urine output is a sign of hypokalemia.
Rationale 3: Muscle weakness and cramps are indicators of hypokalemia.
Rationale 4: Diarrhea and projectile vomiting are not associated with hypokalemia.
Global Rationale: Muscle weakness and cramps are indicators of hypokalemia. Confusion might accompany hypokalemia, but decreased urine output is not a sign of hypokalemia. Neither general irritability nor increased urine output is a sign of hypokalemia. Diarrhea and projectile vomiting are not associated with hypokalemia.