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A client with a diagnosis of heart failure is prescribed spironolactone (Aldactone). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor closely?
- A. Serum calcium
- B. Serum potassium
- C. Serum sodium
- D. Serum glucose
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Serum potassium. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which can lead to hyperkalemia. Monitoring serum potassium levels is crucial to prevent potential complications related to high potassium levels, such as cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, close monitoring of serum potassium is essential for clients taking spironolactone. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because spironolactone does not directly impact serum calcium, sodium, or glucose levels significantly. While these values may be monitored for other reasons in a client with heart failure, they are not the primary focus of monitoring when spironolactone is prescribed.
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The client is being taught about the use of sublingual nitroglycerin for chest pain. Which instruction should be provided?
- A. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
- B. Place the tablet under the tongue and let it dissolve.
- C. Chew the tablet and then swallow.
- D. Place the tablet between the cheek and gum.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct method for administering sublingual nitroglycerin is to place the tablet under the tongue and allow it to dissolve. This route of administration facilitates rapid absorption of the medication into the bloodstream, enabling quick relief of chest pain associated with angina or heart conditions. Choice A is incorrect because sublingual nitroglycerin should not be swallowed whole. Choice C is wrong as chewing the tablet can lead to the rapid release of the drug, causing adverse effects like headaches or dizziness. Choice D is also incorrect as the tablet should not be placed between the cheek and gum, but under the tongue for proper absorption.
Risks to the fetus in the second trimester include:
- A. Exposure to teratogens causing abnormal organ development
- B. Maternal use of tobacco causing intrauterine growth restriction
- C. Maternal hypertension causing placental insufficiency
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Choice B is correct because the second trimester involves growth, and tobacco restricts it via vasoconstriction, a key risk then. Choice A is incorrect as teratogens primarily affect organ development in the first trimester. Choice C is wrong because hypertension's placental effects are more third-trimester prominent. Choice D is incorrect since B is the specific second-trimester concern.
A client with atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). Which instruction should the nurse give to the client regarding lifestyle changes?
- A. Avoid prolonged sitting or standing.
- B. Use an electric razor to prevent cuts.
- C. Take your medication with a full glass of water.
- D. Eat a diet low in protein.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Using an electric razor is advised to prevent cuts, which is crucial for individuals taking warfarin due to the increased risk of bleeding associated with this medication. Lifestyle changes related to warfarin therapy focus on minimizing the risk of bleeding, and using safety measures such as an electric razor is a practical recommendation to reduce the likelihood of injury. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Avoiding prolonged sitting or standing is more related to preventing blood clots than to the bleeding risk of warfarin. Taking warfarin with a full glass of water is not a specific lifestyle change associated with its use. Eating a diet low in protein is not a typical recommendation for individuals on warfarin therapy.
A client has a new prescription for verapamil. Which of the following beverages should the client avoid while taking this medication?
- A. Orange juice
- B. Coffee
- C. Milk
- D. Grapefruit juice
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Grapefruit juice should be avoided while taking verapamil as it can increase drug levels and the risk of side effects. The interaction between grapefruit juice and verapamil can lead to higher concentrations of the medication in the bloodstream, potentially causing adverse effects. Orange juice, coffee, and milk do not have significant interactions with verapamil. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to avoid grapefruit juice to ensure the safe and effective use of verapamil.
Strategies to monitor controlled substance use include:
- A. Prescription drug monitoring programs
- B. Patient education
- C. Urine drug screening
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Choice D is correct because PDMPs track prescriptions, education informs risks, and urine screening detects misuse—all key monitoring tools per guidelines. Choice A is incorrect alone as it's one method. Choice B is wrong by itself because education is just part. Choice C is incorrect solo since screening is only one approach.