Family Nurse Practitioner Exam

What condition is characterized by hypokalemia associated with diuretic use?

1. Chronic kidney disease

2. Hypothyroidism

3. Heart failure

4. Hyperaldosteronism

The correct answer is: Chronic kidney disease

The condition characterized by hypokalemia associated with diuretic use is often related to heart failure and the use of certain types of diuretics, particularly loop and thiazide diuretics, which are commonly prescribed to manage fluid overload and hypertension in heart failure patients. These diuretics promote the excretion of potassium along with sodium, leading to hypokalemia. In chronic kidney disease, while potassium levels can be affected, the typical presentation tends to be hyperkalemia rather than hypokalemia due to impaired renal excretion of potassium. Hypothyroidism is not commonly associated with hypokalemia; it more commonly results in other metabolic derangements. Hyperaldosteronism can lead to hypokalemia, but this condition is generally characterized by excessive aldosterone secretion arising from adrenal dysfunction, not directly linked to diuretic use. Thus, heart failure is the most relevant condition associated with hypokalemia in connection with diuretic therapy, as these medications are often essential to managing the symptoms of heart failure.