Drug Card Template
Patient teaching/patient education: Instruct patient to take furosemide as directed. Take missed doses as
soon as possible; do not double doses. Caution patient to change positions slowly to
minimize orthostatic hypotension. Caution patient to use sunscreen and protective clothing
to prevent photosensitivity reactions.
Drug Classification: Loop Diuretics
Action:
Loop diuretics are the most potent diuretics that reduce ECF, cardiac output, and
blood pressure. The mechanism of action for loop diuretics like furosemide is by inhibiting
the apical sodium/potassium/chloride transporter in the thick ascending limb of the loop of
Henle
Indications for use: Loop diuretics are medications used to treat fluid overload conditions
such as heart failure, nephrotic syndrome or cirrhosis, and hypertension, in addition to
edema.
Side Effects
Hypotension, Dry Mouth, Thirst
Pre -Assessment/Nursing interventions
Monitor weight, intake, output, and serum
electrolyte levels. Monitor blood glucose levels (some
agents may cause hyperglycemia).
Follow blood urea nitrogen and creatinine levels
regularly.
Adverse Effects/Toxic Effects
Hyponatremia, Confusion, Seizures, Lethargy, Oliguria
Post Administration /Nursing intervention
Monitor daily weight, intake and output ratios,
amount and location of edema, lung sounds, skin
turgor, and mucous membranes. Notify
health care professional if thirst, dry mouth, lethargy,
weakness, hypotension, or oliguria
occurs.
Contraindications / Drug to Drug interactions/Food
Interactions
Hypersensitivity, Cross-sensitivity with thiazides and
sulfonamides may occur; Hepatic Coma, some liquid
products may contain alcohol, avoid in patients with
alcohol intolerance.
Drug Interactions: Diabetes drugs, digoxin, lithium, Ace
inhibitors.
