The nurse is caring for a patient receiving a nitroprusside [Nipride] intravenous infusion. The patient's wife asks why furosemide [Lasix] is being prescribed along with this drug. The nurse's response is based on which concept?
A. Furosemide will help reduce reflex tachycardia.
B. Many vasodilators cause retention of sodium and water.
C. Thiocyanate may accumulate in patients receiving nitroprusside.
D. Vasodilators can cause serious orthostatic hypotension.
Answer: B. Many vasodilators cause retention of sodium and water.
Explanation: Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator that can cause retention of sodium and water. Furosemide, a diuretic, often is combined with nitroprusside to reduce the risk of edema and fluid retention. Furosemide does not reduce reflex tachycardia. Thiocyanate can accumulate in patients receiving nitroprusside, but furosemide does not help prevent or treat that. Vasodilators can cause serious orthostatic hypotension, but that is not the rationale for adding furosemide to the regimen.
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