Which electrolyte should a nurse monitor closely in a client prescribed aliskiren?

Aliskiren is a direct renin inhibitor used primarily for the treatment of hypertension. One of the medication's side effects can be hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. This occurs because aliskiren can reduce the excretion of potassium through the kidneys, leading to accumulation in the bloodstream.

Monitoring potassium levels in patients receiving aliskiren is crucial, as it helps prevent serious complications associated with hyperkalemia, such as cardiac arrhythmias. Proper management of potassium levels is an essential aspect of nursing care for clients taking this medication to ensure patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes.

While sodium, chloride, and calcium levels are also important in the context of electrolyte balance, they are not specifically affected by the mechanism of action of aliskiren to the same extent as potassium. Therefore, potassium is the primary electrolyte of concern when a patient is on this medication.