Cardiac Medicine Certification (CMC) Practice Exam

What should patients limit to less than 2gm per day while on diuretics?

1. Fluid intake

2. Protein intake

3. Sodium intake

4. Potassium intake

The correct answer is: Sodium intake

Patients on diuretics should limit their sodium intake to less than 2 grams per day primarily because diuretics can lead to increased sodium excretion. This medication class is often prescribed for conditions such as hypertension and heart failure, where controlling blood pressure and reducing fluid overload are critical. Reducing sodium intake helps to mitigate potential weight gain and fluid retention, ensuring the effectiveness of the diuretic therapy while promoting better cardiovascular health. Managing dietary sodium also assists in maintaining proper electrolyte balance. High sodium levels can cause the body to retain water, which counters the intended effects of diuretics and can lead to complications such as increased blood pressure or edema. By adhering to a low-sodium diet, patients can enhance the benefits of their diuretic medications and reduce associated risks. In contrast to sodium, fluid intake, protein intake, and potassium intake have different management strategies that depend on the clinical scenario. For example, while fluid intake may be restricted in certain heart failure patients, it is not universally limited for all patients on diuretics. Similarly, protein intake is typically not restricted unless there are specific renal or metabolic concerns. Potassium management varies based on the type of diuretic used; while potassium-sparing diuretics call for careful intake