Which assessment should be performed to determine the desired outcome of losartan therapy?

• A. Urine output volume.
• B. Blood pressure.
• C. Serum potassium level.
• D. Weight change.

Answer: (B)

The key measure of losartan’s effectiveness is blood pressure. Losartan blocks the angiotensin II receptor, leading to vasodilation and reduced aldosterone activity, which lowers systemic vascular resistance and, consequently, blood pressure. By consistently monitoring blood pressure, you can determine whether the medication is achieving its intended antihypertensive effect and adjust the dose as needed to reach the target pressure.

Urine output volume isn't the primary indicator of losartan's success; it reflects kidney function and fluid balance rather than the drug’s antihypertensive action. Serum potassium level is important to monitor because losartan can cause hyperkalemia, a safety concern, but it does not show whether blood pressure has been controlled. Weight change isn't a direct or reliable marker of losartan’s therapeutic effect on blood pressure. Focus on tracking blood pressure over time to assess efficacy, while also watching potassium and kidney function for safety.