Galen College of Nursing Practice Exam

Loop diuretics increase potassium loss in the kidneys, which lowers potassium levels in the blood. Potassium is essential for normal muscle function, so when levels drop, muscles can become irritable and cramp. Among the options, muscle cramps are the most specific sign of hypokalemia in someone taking a loop diuretic. Dizziness, nausea, and headache can occur for many reasons and aren’t as directly tied to potassium depletion. If hypokalemia is present, checking potassium levels and addressing the imbalance helps prevent complications, including potential cardiac effects.