When a patient starts to void after starting furosemide, what is the priority assessment?

When a patient starts to void after starting furosemide, what is the priority assessment?

• A. Electrolyte levels
• B. Hourly output
• C. Blood pressure
• D. Respiratory rate

Answer: (C)

Starting furosemide can cause rapid diuresis and a drop in intravascular volume, so the most important thing to assess as the patient begins to void is blood pressure. A falling blood pressure signals potential hypovolemia and orthostatic risk, which can lead to dizziness, falls, or decreased organ perfusion. Monitoring BP (and noticing any orthostatic changes) allows early intervention to keep the patient safe, such as adjusting therapy or fluids as ordered. While tracking hourly urine output shows how much diuresis is happening, it doesn’t address the immediate safety concern. Electrolyte levels and respiratory status are important for overall management, but the priority in this moment is ensuring hemodynamic stability.

Starting furosemide can cause rapid diuresis and a drop in intravascular volume, so the most important thing to assess as the patient begins to void is blood pressure. A falling blood pressure signals potential hypovolemia and orthostatic risk, which can lead to dizziness, falls, or decreased organ perfusion. Monitoring BP (and noticing any orthostatic changes) allows early intervention to keep the patient safe, such as adjusting therapy or fluids as ordered.

While tracking hourly urine output shows how much diuresis is happening, it doesn’t address the immediate safety concern. Electrolyte levels and respiratory status are important for overall management, but the priority in this moment is ensuring hemodynamic stability.