In end-stage renal disease, what is a typical consideration regarding the use of furosemide for fluid management?

• A. Furosemide cures kidney failure.
• B. Furosemide is used to prevent anemia.
• C. Furosemide may help reduce fluid overload if there is remaining urine output.
• D. Furosemide increases serum phosphorus.

Answer: (C)

In end-stage renal disease, the usefulness of furosemide depends on remaining kidney function. If there is still some urine output, a loop diuretic like furosemide can help reduce fluid overload by increasing urine production and promoting diuresis between dialysis sessions. It’s not a cure for kidney failure and won’t reverse the loss of renal function, and it isn’t a treatment for anemia or phosphorus management. Furosemide does not raise serum phosphorus; phosphorus control is managed with dietary restrictions and phosphate binders. If there is little or no urine output, furosemide is unlikely to have a meaningful effect on fluid status, so fluid management often relies primarily on dialysis and careful fluid restriction.