Which vitamin should a nurse tell a client on furosemide (Lasix) to consider supplementing?

Furosemide, commonly known as Lasix, is a loop diuretic that increases urine production to help reduce fluid overload in conditions such as heart failure and hypertension. One of the significant effects of using this medication is the potential for electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia, which is a condition characterized by lower-than-normal levels of potassium in the blood.

The action of furosemide promotes the excretion of potassium along with sodium and water. As potassium is essential for various bodily functions, including muscle contraction and nerve signal transmission, a deficiency can lead to serious health complications, such as muscle weakness, cramping, and cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, it is vital for clients taking furosemide to monitor their potassium levels and consider supplementation to prevent deficiency.

While the other vitamins mentioned, such as Vitamin C, D, and B12, play important roles in overall health and well-being, they are not directly impacted by the use of furosemide in the way potassium is. Thus, potassium supplementation is the appropriate recommendation for a client on furosemide.