A client admitted with hypokalemia is on spironolactone. Which clinical findings should the nurse assess for?

In the context of a client with hypokalemia who is being treated with spironolactone, assessing for muscle weakness is particularly important. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood, can lead to a range of neuromuscular symptoms due to the critical role potassium plays in muscle contraction and nerve function.

Muscle weakness is a classic sign of hypokalemia; as potassium levels drop, the excitability of muscle cells diminishes, which can result in generalized weakness or, in more severe cases, respiratory muscle weakness. Since spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, it is often used in cases where potassium levels need to be monitored closely, but the health professional should still anticipate the possibility of symptoms related to the underlying hypokalemia in other aspects of care.

While lethargy and a thready, weak pulse can also be associated with hypokalemia, muscle weakness is a more direct manifestation of low potassium levels affecting physical strength and function. Hyperactive deep tendon reflexes typically indicate hyperkalemia or other conditions affecting nerve function, making this symptom less relevant in the context of hypokalemia. Thus, focusing assessment on muscle weakness is essential for appropriate monitoring and intervention in this scenario.