Which electrolyte imbalance is a diabetic client at risk for when treated with captopril?

Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that is commonly used to manage hypertension and diabetic nephropathy. One of the key effects of captopril is its ability to increase potassium levels in the blood by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS).

When aldosterone production is reduced, the kidneys excrete less potassium, leading to an accumulation of potassium in the bloodstream, a condition known as hyperkalemia. This is especially relevant for diabetic clients, who may have underlying renal impairment or altered potassium handling due to their condition.

Diabetic patients treated with captopril must therefore be monitored for signs of hyperkalemia, such as muscle weakness, fatigue, and cardiac arrhythmias, which can be serious. This aspect of captopril therapy highlights the importance of regularly checking electrolyte levels in patients on ACE inhibitors, particularly those who are at higher risk for electrolyte imbalances.