The patient is receiving hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) as well as digoxin (Lanoxin). Which lab result would the nurse recognize as most significant?
1. ALT level of 35 units/L
2. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
3. Potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L
4. BUN level of 20 mg/dl
Correct Answer: 3
Rationale: Hypokalemia caused by hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL) may increase digoxin (Lanoxin) toxicity. The normal range for potassium is 3.5 to 5.2 mEq/L. The concern is hypokalemia, not sodium levels; this sodium level is within normal range. The concern is hypokalemia, not liver damage, and this ALT level is within normal range. The concern is hypokalemia, not kidney function, and this BUN is within normal range.
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