American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) Practice Exam 2025 – Comprehensive All-in-One Guide for Exam Success!

Hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a thiazide diuretic commonly used to treat hypertension and edema. It is specifically known to have a notable association with increased lipoprotein levels, particularly LDL cholesterol. This effect can occur because thiazide diuretics may adversely influence lipid metabolism, leading to changes in cholesterol levels and potentially increasing the risk of dyslipidemia in certain patients.

Understanding this association is essential for nurses and healthcare providers, as it helps in monitoring patients and managing their lipid levels, especially in those who are at risk for cardiovascular disease. Comparing HCTZ to the other diuretics mentioned, furosemide primarily affects electrolyte balance and does not significantly influence lipid levels. Spironolactone, a potassium-sparing diuretic, is also less associated with changes in lipid profiles, while triamterene has similar effects as spironolactone. Recognizing HCTZ’s distinctive impact on lipoprotein levels is crucial for effective patient management and optimizing treatment outcomes.