ATI > RN

Exam Review

Hesi rn d441 pharmacology 0A1

Total Questions : 40

Showing 25 questions, Sign in for more
Question 1:

A client with anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD) started a prescription for epoetin alfa two months ago. Which client finding best indicates that the medication is effective?

Reference Range:

Hemoglobin (Hgb) [14 to 18 g/dL (8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L)

Explanation

A) Reports of increased energy levels and decreased fatigue: While increased energy and decreased fatigue can be positive signs of treatment effectiveness, they are subjective and can be influenced by various factors unrelated to hemoglobin levels.

B) Takes concurrent iron therapy without adverse effects: This indicates that the client is tolerating their treatment, but it does not directly measure the effectiveness of epoetin alfa in increasing red blood cell production or improving anemia.

C) Food diary shows increased consumption of iron-rich foods: Increased dietary intake of iron can support treatment for anemia, but it does not provide a definitive measure of the effectiveness of epoetin alfa specifically.

D) Hemoglobin level: The most direct indicator of the effectiveness of epoetin alfa is an increase in hemoglobin levels. The purpose of administering this medication is to stimulate erythropoiesis, thereby raising hemoglobin levels in clients with anemia, especially in those with chronic kidney disease. Monitoring the hemoglobin level provides objective evidence of how well the medication is working.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 2:

The nurse administers naloxone to a client with opioid-induced respiratory depression. One hour later, nursing assessment reveals that the client has a respiratory rate of 4 breaths/minute, oxygen saturation of 75%, and is unable to be aroused. Which action should the nurse implement?

Explanation

A)Administeraseconddoseofnaloxone:Whileadministeringanotherdoseofnaloxonemaybenecessary,theclient'scurrentrespiratoryrateof4breaths/minuteandoxygensaturationof75%indicatesevererespiratorydepressionandpossiblearrest.Immediateresuscitativeeffortstakepriority.

B)DetermineGlasgowComaScalescore:AssessingtheGlasgowComaScale(GCS)canprovideinformationontheclient'slevelofconsciousness,butitisnottheimmediatepriority.Theclient'sinabilitytobearousedalreadyindicatesacriticalcondition.

C)Initiatecardiopulmonaryresuscitation(CPR):Theclient'ssevererespiratorydepressionandsignificantlylowoxygensaturationnecessitateimmediatelife-savingmeasures.InitiatingCPRaddressesthecriticalneedtosupporttheclient'srespirationandcirculationuntilfurtherinterventionscanbeprovided.

D)Preparetoassistwithchesttubeinsertion:Chesttubeinsertionisnotindicatedinthisscenario,astheprimaryissueisopioid-inducedrespiratorydepressionratherthanconditionsrequiringachesttube,suchaspneumothoraxorhemothorax.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 3:

The healthcare provider prescribes propylthiouracil (PTU) and Lugol's solution, a strong iodine solution, for a client with hyperthyroidism. How should the nurse schedule the administration of these medications?

Explanation

A) Offer both drugs together with a meal: While some medications can be taken with food to minimize gastrointestinal upset, PTU specifically should be administered on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Additionally, the timing between these two medications is crucial.

B) Schedule both medications at bedtime: This option does not address the necessary timing of iodine administration in relation to PTU. Administering them together at bedtime could lead to ineffective treatment.

C) Give parental dose once every 24 hours: This option may be misleading as it does not specify the route or the need for timing between these specific medications. PTU is typically given multiple times a day rather than once every 24 hours.

D) Administer iodine one hour before PTU: This is the correct approach. Administering Lugol's solution (iodine) one hour before PTU allows the iodine to suppress thyroid hormone release before PTU takes effect. This staggered administration enhances the therapeutic effects of both medications in managing hyperthyroidism.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 4:

The nurse is assessing a client who was recently diagnosed with Parkinson's disease and is taking carbidopa-levodopa. The client is concerned that the medication is not working. Which intervention should the nurse implement first?

Explanation

A) Ask if the client's morning voids are dark colored: While this question may provide some information about hydration or possible side effects, it does not directly address the client's primary concern regarding the effectiveness of the medication.

B) Explore what the client means by the drug "is not working": This is the most appropriate first intervention. Understanding the client's specific concerns, symptoms, or changes in their condition will help clarify the situation and guide further assessment or education. The client may have misconceptions about the medication's effects or may be experiencing variations in symptom control.

C) Evaluate the client for signs of dyskinesia: Assessing for dyskinesia is important, especially in clients on long-term levodopa therapy. However, it is not the immediate step in addressing the client's concern about the medication's effectiveness.

D) Determine if the client is taking the medication before meals: This is also relevant because the timing of medication can affect its absorption and efficacy. However, this intervention should follow understanding the client’s concerns first to provide a more comprehensive response.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 5:

A client who is taking dextroamphetamine-amphetamine extended-release tablets for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), reports about having difficulty sleeping at night. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to obtain?

Explanation

A) Determine what time the dose is taken: This assessment is crucial because the timing of the medication can significantly affect the client’s sleep patterns. Stimulant medications like dextroamphetamine-amphetamine can lead to insomnia if taken too late in the day. Understanding the timing will help the nurse identify if an adjustment is needed.

B) Determine daily caffeine intake: While caffeine can interfere with sleep, it is secondary to understanding the medication schedule. If the stimulant is taken late, it may be the primary cause of the sleep disturbance.

C) Ask about the client's bedtime routine: While the bedtime routine can influence sleep quality, it is more important to understand how the medication timing impacts the client’s ability to fall asleep.

D) Inquire about perceived anxiety: Anxiety can contribute to sleep difficulties, but in this scenario, identifying the medication's timing is the most direct way to address the client’s reported issue with sleep.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 6:

A client receives a prescription for allopurinol. Which information provided by the client requires additional instruction by the nurse?

Explanation

A) Avoid taking on an empty stomach: This statement is correct as taking allopurinol with food can help reduce gastrointestinal irritation. Therefore, no additional instruction is needed here.

B) Reduce caffeine and acidic intake: This is appropriate advice. Reducing caffeine and acidic foods can help lower uric acid levels, so no further instruction is required.

C) Consume 2 liters of water daily: Staying well-hydrated is crucial while taking allopurinol to help prevent kidney stones and promote excretion of uric acid. Thus, this guidance is accurate.

D) Double the dose if a dose is missed: This statement requires additional instruction. Patients should not double doses of allopurinol. Instead, they should take the missed dose as soon as they remember unless it is close to the time for the next dose. In that case, they should skip the missed dose and resume their regular schedule.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 7:

Which nursing intervention has priority when initiating a continuous epidural infusion with an opioid analgesic?

Explanation

A) Apply a pulse oximeter to the client per protocol: This intervention is crucial as opioid analgesics can cause respiratory depression, which is a significant risk when starting a continuous epidural infusion. Monitoring oxygen saturation helps ensure the client's safety and enables early detection of any respiratory issues.

B) Administer a stool softener per PRN protocol: While managing potential constipation is important in clients receiving opioid therapy, it is not the immediate priority when initiating the epidural infusion. This can be addressed later.

C) Insert an indwelling urinary catheter per protocol: This may be necessary for some clients, especially those who are post-operative or unable to void. However, it is not the most critical initial action related to the risks associated with opioids.

D) Administer an antiemetic per PRN prescription: Nausea and vomiting can occur with opioid use, but ensuring the client's respiratory function is stable takes precedence over this intervention. Monitoring and managing respiratory status is the priority.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 8:

A client is receiving orlistat as part of a weight management program. Which ongoing assessment should be included in the plan of care to determine the effectiveness of the medication?

Explanation

A) Serum protein levels: While monitoring serum protein levels can be important for overall nutritional status, it is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of orlistat in weight management.

B) Body mass index (BMI): BMI is a key indicator of weight status and helps assess the effectiveness of orlistat as part of a weight management program. Tracking changes in BMI over time provides a clear measure of weight loss or maintenance.

C) Daily calorie count: Although monitoring caloric intake is useful for overall dietary management, it does not specifically measure the effectiveness of orlistat. The medication's primary function is to inhibit fat absorption, which ultimately influences weight.

D) Depression screening: While mental health is important in weight management, depression screening is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of orlistat. This assessment should be considered, but it is secondary to tracking changes in BMI.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 9:

The nurse is teaching a client who has been diagnosed with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) about the antiretroviral medication regimen. Which statement provided by the client requires additional instruction by the nurse?

Explanation

A) HIV infection is not cured by the antiretroviral regimen: This statement is accurate and reflects an important understanding that while antiretroviral therapy (ART) can manage the virus, it does not cure HIV.

B) The viral load can be decreased to an undetectable level: This is correct; effective ART can reduce the viral load to undetectable levels, which is a goal of treatment.

C) The medications can decrease acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) related complications: This statement is also accurate. Antiretroviral therapy helps manage HIV and

can prevent or delay the progression to AIDS.

D) Antiretroviral medication prevents the transmission of the virus: This statement requires additional clarification. While ART can significantly reduce the risk of transmission, it does not completely eliminate it. Individuals with an undetectable viral load can still transmit the virus under certain circumstances, so safer sex practices and other preventive measures should still be emphasized.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 10:

A glucagon emergency kit is prescribed for a client with type 1 diabetes mellitus. When should the nurse instruct the client and family that glucagon needs to be administered?

Explanation

A) Before meals to prevent hyperglycemia: This is incorrect. Glucagon is not administered to prevent hyperglycemia; it is specifically used to treat severe hypoglycemia when the patient is unable to consume carbohydrates.

B) When signs of severe hypoglycemia occur: This statement is correct. Glucagon is indicated for use in cases of severe hypoglycemia, particularly when the individual is unable to take oral glucose or food due to altered consciousness or inability to swallow.

C) At the onset of signs of diabetic ketoacidosis: This is not appropriate. Glucagon does not treat diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA); insulin and fluids are required to manage DKA.

D) When unable to eat during sick days: While it's important for individuals with diabetes to manage their blood glucose during illness, glucagon should specifically be reserved for severe hypoglycemic episodes, not just when unable to eat. If a person is ill and cannot eat, they should monitor their blood glucose and manage it according to their treatment plan.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 11:

A client who received a renal transplant three months ago is readmitted to the acute care unit with signs of graft rejection. While taking the client's history, the nurse determines that the client has been self-administering St. John's Wort, an herbal preparation, on the advice of a friend. Which information is most significant about this finding?

Explanation

A) St. John's Wort can decrease plasma concentrations of cyclosporine: This is the most significant finding. St. John's Wort is known to induce liver enzymes, which can lead to decreased effectiveness of medications like cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant critical for preventing organ rejection in transplant patients. This interaction could lead to increased risk of graft rejection.

B) Adding the herb can decrease the need for corticosteroids: This is not accurate. St. John's Wort does not have a known effect on corticosteroid requirements, and its interaction with immunosuppressants is more critical.

C) Ingestion of St. John's Wort can reduce the client's intake of sodium: This is not relevant in this context. St. John's Wort does not affect sodium intake; its primary concern lies in its interaction with other medications.

D) The client probably used this herb to treat depression: While this may be true, it is not the most significant issue in the context of a post-transplant patient at risk for graft rejection. The interaction with cyclosporine is a more immediate concern.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 12:

A female client starts a new prescription, oxybutynin, for symptoms of an overactive bladder. The client tells the nurse that she is training to run in a half-marathon. Which instruction should the nurse emphasize?

Explanation

A) Avoid crowds to help prevent acquiring infections: While it’s generally good practice to avoid crowds to prevent infections, this is not directly related to the use of oxybutynin or the client's training for a marathon.

B) Take measures to avoid dehydration and over-heating: This is the most pertinent instruction for a client training for a half-marathon while on oxybutynin. This medication can cause dry mouth and decreased sweating, which increases the risk of dehydration and overheating during physical activity. Emphasizing hydration and cooling strategies is crucial for the client's safety and performance.

C) Wear padding to protect from bruising if a fall occurs: While safety is important, this instruction is less relevant than hydration concerns in the context of running a half-marathon and using oxybutynin.

D) Keep skin and eyes covered to protect from sun injury: This is generally good advice for outdoor activities, but it does not specifically address the risks associated with oxybutynin, making it a secondary concern compared to hydration and overheating.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 13:

A male client is admitted for observation because he is reporting progressively increasing fatigue over the past month and a brief episode of dizziness that occurred today. He has a history of heartburn and indigestion that he self-treats with ibuprofen and antacids. Which assessment finding should the nurse report immediately to the healthcare provider?

Reference Ranges:

Hemoglobin [14 to 18 g/dL (8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L)]

Hematocrit [42% to 52% (0.42 to 0.52 volume fraction)

]Gastric pH [1.5 to 3.5]

Explanation

A) Hematocrit 42% (0.42 volume fraction): This value is within the normal range for hematocrit, indicating that the client’s blood volume and concentration are likely stable at this time.

B) Gastric pH 2.0: A gastric pH of 2.0 is within the normal range for gastric acidity, indicating that the stomach is functioning properly in terms of acid production.

C) Positive guaiac of stool: This finding is significant as it suggests the presence of gastrointestinal bleeding, which could be a consequence of the client's use of ibuprofen. Given the client's increasing fatigue and dizziness, which may indicate potential anemia, this finding requires immediate attention from the healthcare provider.

D) Hemoglobin 13 g/dL (8.07 mmol/L): While this hemoglobin level is slightly below the normal range for males, it is not as urgent as the indication of gastrointestinal bleeding. The positive guaiac test suggests an underlying issue that may need to be addressed more urgently.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 14:

A client with benign prostatic hyperplasia receives a new prescription of tamsulosin. Which intervention should the nurse perform to monitor for an adverse reaction?

Explanation

A) Perform a bladder scan: While a bladder scan can be useful to assess for urinary retention in patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), it does not specifically monitor for adverse reactions to tamsulosin.

B) Monitor blood pressure: Tamsulosin is an alpha-1 adrenergic antagonist that can cause hypotension as a potential adverse effect. Therefore, monitoring blood pressure is crucial to identify any significant drops that could lead to dizziness or fainting, especially when the client first starts the medication or if the dosage is adjusted.

C) Obtain daily weights: While monitoring weight can be important for assessing fluid retention or other conditions, it is not a direct measure of an adverse reaction related to tamsulosin.

D) Assess urine output: Monitoring urine output is important in evaluating the effectiveness of the medication in relieving BPH symptoms, but it does not directly assess for the potential adverse effects of tamsulosin, such as hypotension.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 15:

The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed gabapentin 300 mg by mouth (PO) three times a day for postherpetic neuralgia. Which symptom should the nurse tell the client to report to the healthcare provider,

Explanation

A) Photosensitivity: While photosensitivity can occur with some medications, it is not a common side effect of gabapentin. Therefore, it may not be the most critical symptom to report.

B) Gastric Irritation: Gastric irritation can occur with many medications, but it is typically not a significant concern with gabapentin. The client should monitor for this but it isn't as urgent as other symptoms.

C) Sexual dysfunction: While sexual dysfunction can occur as a side effect of some medications, it is not specifically associated with gabapentin, and it is not an immediate concern.

D) Rapid weight gain: Rapid weight gain can indicate fluid retention or other serious complications, which could require urgent evaluation and intervention. Therefore, the client should be instructed to report any significant or rapid changes in weight to the healthcare provider.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 16:

The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed gabapentin 300 mg by mouth (PO) three times a day for postherpetic neuralgia. Which symptom should the nurse tell the client to report to the healthcare provider,

Explanation

A) Rinsing the mouth with water should be done after each use: This statement indicates that the client understands the importance of preventing oral thrush and other side effects that can occur with inhaled medications, especially corticosteroids.

B) To mask taste of the medication, inhaler can be used during meal: This statement reflects a misunderstanding. Using an inhaler during meals is not recommended as it can interfere with proper inhalation technique and medication delivery.

C) Caffeinated beverages should be limited to two cups per day: While excessive caffeine can sometimes exacerbate symptoms in certain respiratory conditions, this statement does not specifically relate to the use of inhalers and does not demonstrate understanding of inhaler use.

D) The inhaler will be used before bed each night: This statement may not be appropriate for all inhalers, especially if they are bronchodilators that may cause insomnia. The timing of inhaler use should be based on the prescribed regimen and individual needs.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 17:

A client with peptic ulcer disease receives a new prescription for cimetidine. Which statement provided by the dent requires

Explanation

A) Take the medication an hour after antacids: This statement reflects proper understanding, as antacids can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine. The client should ideally wait at least an hour after taking antacids before taking cimetidine.

B) Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction: This is a relevant concern with cimetidine, as it can cause sexual side effects, indicating the client understands the potential adverse effects of the medication.

C) Notify the healthcare provider of lethargy: This statement is appropriate because lethargy can indicate potential serious side effects or complications, especially with a new medication, suggesting the client understands the need for monitoring side effects.

D) Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day: This statement requires additional instruction. Smoking can exacerbate peptic ulcer disease, and the client should be encouraged to quit or significantly reduce smoking, not just decrease it to a pack per day.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 18:

A client with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) receives a new prescription for lorazepam. Which statement provided by the client requires additional instruction by the nurse?

Explanation

A)Userelaxationtechniquestoreduceexcessiveanxiety:Integratingrelaxationtechniquesalongwithmedicationcanenhancetheoveralltreatmentplanforgeneralizedanxietydisorder.Thisapproachhelpsclientsdevelophealthycopingmechanismsandmanageanxietysymptomsmoreeffectively.

B)Moveslowlyfromasittingpositiontoastandingposition:Lorazepamcancausedizzinessandlightheadedness,particularlywhenchangingpositions.Advisingclientstomoveslowlyhelpspreventfallsandinjuriesassociatedwithorthostatichypotension.

C)Avoidalcoholandothersedativeswhiletakingthemedication:Alcoholandothersedativescanpotentiatetheeffectsoflorazepam,leadingtoincreasedsedation,respiratorydepression,andotherdangeroussideeffects.Clientsmustunderstandtheimportanceofavoidingthesesubstances.

D)Stoptakingthemedicationifintendedeffectisnotimmediate:Lorazepamandotheranxiolyticsmaytakesometimetoreachtheirfulleffect.Stoppingthemedicationprematurelycanleadtowithdrawalsymptomsandalackoftherapeuticbenefit.Itisimportantforclientstofollowtheprescribedregimenandconsulttheirhealthcareprovideriftheyhaveconcernsaboutthemedication'seffectiveness.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 19:

The nurse is educating a client about acetaminophen. Which information provided by the client requires additional instruction by the nurse?

Explanation

A) Stop medication if a rash develops: It's crucial for clients to be aware that a rash can indicate an allergic reaction to acetaminophen. Immediate cessation of the medication and reporting this symptom to a healthcare provider is essential for safety.

B) Report any color changes to urine: This information is important because certain liver issues related to acetaminophen use can manifest as changes in urine color, such as darkening. Clients should be educated to monitor and report any unusual changes to ensure prompt medical evaluation.

C) Avoid the consumption of alcohol: Clients should be informed about the risks associated with alcohol consumption while taking acetaminophen. Alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage, especially when combined with acetaminophen, so understanding this relationship is vital for safe medication use.

D) Take additional doses as needed: This statement raises concern because acetaminophen has a maximum daily dosage that should not be exceeded to avoid the risk of liver toxicity. Clients need to understand the importance of adhering to prescribed dosing guidelines and should be instructed not to self-medicate with additional doses without consulting a healthcare provider. Clear communication about dosage limits is essential to prevent serious health complications.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 20:

The nurse is reviewing the client's laboratory values. Which serum laboratory value indicates to the nurse that a prescription for atorvastatin is having the desired effect for a client at risk for coronary artery disease?

Explanation

A) Low density lipoprotein (LDL): Atorvastatin is primarily prescribed to lower LDL cholesterol levels, which are directly associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease. A decrease in LDL levels indicates that the medication is effectively managing the client’s cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.

B) High density lipoprotein (HDL): While higher levels of HDL cholesterol are generally considered protective against heart disease, atorvastatin’s main purpose is to lower LDL levels. Therefore, an increase in HDL does not necessarily indicate that the atorvastatin is achieving its primary therapeutic effect in reducing cardiovascular risk.

C) Creatine phosphokinase (CK): This enzyme level is monitored primarily to assess muscle damage and the potential side effects of statins like atorvastatin, such as rhabdomyolysis. While elevated CK levels can indicate muscle issues, they do not provide direct information about the effectiveness of atorvastatin in managing cholesterol levels or coronary artery disease risk.

D) Prothrombin time (PT): PT is a measure of blood coagulation and is not relevant to the effectiveness of atorvastatin. While important for monitoring anticoagulation therapy, PT does not provide insight into lipid levels or the impact of atorvastatin on coronary artery disease risk. Thus, it is not an appropriate indicator of the medication's desired effects.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 21:

A client who is taking furosemide reports experiencing leg cramps, a cough, feeling tired, and palpitations. Which action should the nurse take first?

Explanation

A) Place on cardiac monitoring: Given the symptoms of leg cramps, cough, fatigue, and palpitations, the client may be experiencing electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia, which is a common side effect of furosemide. Palpitations can indicate serious cardiac issues, so placing the client on cardiac monitoring is the most urgent action to ensure their safety and allow for immediate intervention if necessary.

B) Monitor intake and output: While monitoring intake and output is important for clients on furosemide to assess fluid balance and kidney function, it is not the immediate priority in this scenario. The presence of palpitations and other symptoms suggests a more acute condition that requires urgent assessment and intervention.

C) Raise the head of the bed: This action may provide comfort if the client is experiencing respiratory distress from the cough. However, it does not directly address the potential cardiac implications of the reported symptoms and is not the most critical step in this situation.

D) Apply warm compresses to legs: While warm compresses may help alleviate leg cramps, this intervention is not the priority given the potentially serious symptoms the client is experiencing. Addressing the possibility of cardiac complications takes precedence over symptomatic relief for leg cramps.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 22:

The nurse is administering sodium polystyrene sulfonate to a client in acute kidney injury (AKI). Which laboratory finding indicates that the medication has been effective?

Reference Range:

Glucose [74 to 106 mg/dL (4.1 to 5.9 mmol/L)] Hemoglobin [14 to 18 g/dL (140 to 180 g/L)] Potassium [3.5 to 5 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mmol/L)] Ammonia [10 to 80 μg/dL (6 to 47 μmol/dL)

Explanation

A) Serum glucose level of 120 mg/dL (6.7 mmol/L): While this glucose level is slightly above the normal reference range, it is not indicative of the effectiveness of sodium polystyrene sulfonate. The medication's primary purpose is to lower potassium levels, not to manage glucose levels.

B) Serum ammonia level of 30 μg/dL (17.62 μmol/dL): Although this ammonia level falls within the normal range, it is not directly related to the action of sodium polystyrene sulfonate. This medication primarily addresses hyperkalemia, so ammonia levels do not reflect its effectiveness.

C) Serum potassium level of 3.8 mEq/L (3.8 mmol/L): This potassium level is within the normal reference range, indicating that sodium polystyrene sulfonate has effectively reduced the client’s hyperkalemia. The primary action of the medication is to decrease elevated potassium levels, making this finding the most relevant indicator of therapeutic success.

D) Hemoglobin level of 13.5 g/dL (135 g/L): This hemoglobin level is within the normal range but does not provide information about potassium levels or the effectiveness of sodium polystyrene sulfonate. The focus should be on potassium management, making this finding less relevant in this context.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 23:

A client with chemotherapy induced nausea receives a prescription for metoclopramide. Which adverse effect is most important for the nurse to report?

Explanation

A) Diarrhea: While diarrhea can be a side effect of metoclopramide, it is generally less concerning than other potential adverse effects. It may require monitoring but does not typically warrant immediate reporting unless it is severe or persistent.

B) Involuntary movements: This symptom is critical to report because metoclopramide can cause extrapyramidal symptoms, including tardive dyskinesia or acute dystonic reactions. These involuntary movements can be serious and may indicate a need for medication adjustment or discontinuation, making it imperative for the nurse to communicate this finding to the healthcare provider immediately.

C) Unusual irritability: While irritability may be noted, it is less specific and concerning than the potential for involuntary movements. Although it can affect the client’s overall well-being, it does not indicate a severe or immediate risk to the client's health.

D) Nausea: As the medication is intended to alleviate nausea, reporting nausea would not be appropriate unless it is persistent or severe. It would be expected for a client receiving this medication to have some residual nausea, but it should be assessed in the context of the overall treatment plan.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 24:

A client has a new prescription for diclofenac, a nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drug (NSAID). Which information in the client's history is of greatest concem to the nurse in monitoring the client's response to this medication?

Explanation

A) Migraine headaches: While migraines may require treatment, this condition does not significantly impact the safety profile of diclofenac. The use of NSAIDs for migraine relief is common and typically does not pose additional risks.

B) Chronic alcoholism: This is the most critical concern because chronic alcohol use can exacerbate the risk of gastrointestinal side effects, including ulcers and bleeding, when taken with NSAIDs. Additionally, alcohol can increase the potential for liver damage, particularly when combined with the hepatic metabolism of diclofenac. Therefore, monitoring this client's response to the medication is essential to prevent serious complications.

C) Osteoarthritis: This condition is often treated with NSAIDs like diclofenac, and while it necessitates medication, it does not present a direct risk that would influence monitoring the client's response to treatment.

D) Type 2 diabetes mellitus: Although diabetes can complicate overall health management and may have implications for various medications, it is not a specific risk factor associated with NSAID use. Therefore, it is less concerning than the potential effects of chronic alcoholism on the use of diclofenac.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Question 25:

The nurse is caring for an adult client who is taking digoxin. Which laboratory value should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately?

Reference Range:

Sodium [Adult 136 to 145 mEq/L (136 to 145 mmol/L)]

Digoxin level [0.8 to 2.0 ng/mL (0.6 to 13 nmol/L)]

Potassium (K+) [Adult: 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L)]

Creatinine [0.5 to 1.1 mg/dL (44 to 97 μmol/L)]

Explanation

A) Sodium level of 135 mEq/L (135 mmol/L): This sodium level is slightly below the normal range but is not typically critical. It may require monitoring and evaluation, but it does not pose an immediate risk to the client taking digoxin.

B) Potassium level of 3.2 mEq/L (3.2 mmol/L): This potassium level is significantly low and indicates hypokalemia. Low potassium levels can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity and may lead to serious cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, this value should be reported to the healthcare provider immediately for further assessment and intervention.

C) Creatinine level of 0.8 mg/dL (70.72 μmol/L): This creatinine level is within the normal range and indicates normal kidney function. While renal function is important for digoxin clearance, this value does not require urgent reporting.

D) Digoxin level of 1.1 ng/mL (1.4 nmol/L): This digoxin level is within the therapeutic range (0.8 to 2.0 ng/mL) and does not indicate toxicity. While monitoring digoxin levels is important, this specific result does not warrant immediate concern or reporting.


0 Pulse Checks
No comments

Sign Up or Login to view all the 40 Questions on this Exam

Join over 100,000+ nursing students using Nursingprepexams’s science-backend flashcards, practice tests and expert solutions to improve their grades and reach their goals.

Sign Up Now
learning