Which statement regarding aldosterone is false?

Aldosterone is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that plays a crucial role in regulating electrolyte balance and blood pressure. One of its primary functions is to retain sodium in the kidneys, which helps to retain water and increase blood volume and blood pressure. In addition to sodium retention, aldosterone promotes the excretion of potassium from the body. This means that as the kidneys reabsorb sodium, they actively secrete potassium into the urine, helping to maintain a healthy balance of these important electrolytes.

Given this understanding, the statement that indicates aldosterone causes the kidneys to retain potassium is false. In fact, aldosterone has the opposite effect; it facilitates potassium excretion rather than retention. This process is vital for preventing hyperkalemia, which can be dangerous due to its effects on muscle and nerve function. The other statements accurately describe aldosterone’s role in sodium retention and blood pressure regulation, thus reinforcing its importance in maintaining homeostasis in the body.