# A client on furosemide is prescribed PO potassium chloride 20 mEq/day. Which client statement indicates correct teaching?

> source: MyMerci (mymerci.kr)  
> url: https://mymerci.kr/pages/nclex_q.php?qn_id=391823&lang=en  
> language: en  
> subject: Medical Emergencies  
> category: PA

## Question

A client on furosemide is prescribed PO potassium chloride 20 mEq/day. Which client statement indicates correct teaching?

## Option

1. "I will crush the extended-release potassium tablet and mix it with applesauce to make it easier to swallow because I have trouble swallowing large pills."
2. "I will take this medication with a full glass of water and food to prevent GI irritation; I will not crush extended-release tablets." **✔ Correct answer**
3. "I will take the potassium chloride on an empty stomach first thing in the morning to maximize absorption because food reduces potassium absorption."
4. "I will restrict my total fluid intake to no more than 1 liter per day to prevent fluid overload while on furosemide."

**Correct answer: 2**

## Explanation

Correct (2): PO KCl causes GI irritation and ulceration; take with full glass of water and food. Do not crush extended-release tablets (dose dumping → severe GI ulcer). Monitor K+ periodically with diuretics. (1) Empty stomach causes irritation. (3) Crushing dangerous. (4) Adequate fluid needed.

## In-depth explanation

Memory Tip PO KCl = "With water and food, never crush ER." Salt substitutes contain KCl — caution with ACEi/ARB/spironolactone (hyperkalemia).

## Clinical scenario

Scenario 68-year-old female with HF on furosemide, K+ 3.4. PO KCl 20 mEq/day ordered. Outpatient teaching.

## Key concepts

- **PO potassium chloride** — Replaces K loss in loop/thiazide diuretics; ER formulation common.
- **KCl GI irritation** — Pill esophagitis and ulcer risk; take with food and water.
- **Salt substitute** — Contains KCl; can cause hyperkalemia with K-sparing drugs.

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