A client with hyperaldosteronism is being treated with spironolactone before surgery. Which precaution does the nurse teach this client?

A client with hyperaldosteronism is being treated with spironolactone before surgery. Which precaution does the nurse teach this client?

• A. Read the label before using salt substitutes.
• B. Do not add salt to your food when you eat.
• C. Avoid exposure to sunlight.
• D. Take Tylenol instead of aspirin for pain.

Answer: (A)

Spironolactone is a potassium‑sparing diuretic, so it can raise potassium levels in the body. Hyperaldosteronism treatment with spironolactone increases the risk of hyperkalemia, especially when the patient uses potassium-containing products. Salt substitutes often use potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride, which can push potassium higher. Teaching the patient to read the label before using salt substitutes helps prevent dangerous potassium elevations around surgery, when electrolyte balance is critical. The other options don’t address the key risk of excess potassium from potassium-containing substitutes, so they aren’t the appropriate precautions here.

Spironolactone is a potassium‑sparing diuretic, so it can raise potassium levels in the body. Hyperaldosteronism treatment with spironolactone increases the risk of hyperkalemia, especially when the patient uses potassium-containing products. Salt substitutes often use potassium chloride instead of sodium chloride, which can push potassium higher. Teaching the patient to read the label before using salt substitutes helps prevent dangerous potassium elevations around surgery, when electrolyte balance is critical. The other options don’t address the key risk of excess potassium from potassium-containing substitutes, so they aren’t the appropriate precautions here.