What dietary recommendation is crucial for a client taking furosemide?

Increasing potassium intake is crucial for a client taking furosemide because this medication is a loop diuretic that promotes the excretion of sodium and water through the urine. However, it also can lead to increased potassium loss, potentially resulting in hypokalemia (low potassium levels). To counteract this effect, clients are often advised to consume potassium-rich foods, such as bananas, oranges, and leafy greens, or may require potassium supplements based on their healthcare provider's recommendations.

Addressing the other dietary options: reducing carbohydrate consumption is not a standard recommendation when taking furosemide unless there are specific dietary restrictions or conditions at play, such as diabetes. Limiting protein intake is not necessary unless the patient has renal impairment that warrants such a restriction. Avoiding high-sodium foods is generally beneficial for managing blood pressure and fluid retention, but it doesn’t directly relate to the potassium loss caused by furosemide. The focus remains on maintaining adequate potassium levels to prevent complications associated with its depletion from the body due to diuretic use.