When monitoring a client receiving furosemide, which symptom would indicate hypokalemia?

Muscle weakness is a classic symptom of hypokalemia, especially in the context of a patient receiving furosemide. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that promotes the excretion of potassium along with water and sodium, leading to a potential deficiency of potassium in the body.

When potassium levels drop, muscle cells cannot function optimally, which can lead to weakness or difficulty with movement. This can be particularly pronounced in muscles that are more reliant on potassium for contraction and function, such as proximal muscles.

Other symptoms associated with hypokalemia can include muscle cramps, nausea and vomiting, and fatigue or lethargy as well, but muscle weakness tends to be a more direct and clear indicator of decreased potassium levels in the body, especially in those undergoing treatment with diuretics like furosemide. Monitoring potassium levels and symptoms in patients on such medication is crucial to prevent complications.