A healthcare professional is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking Lithium for Bipolar Disorder. Which of the following findings should the healthcare professional report to the provider immediately?
- A. Lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L
- B. Potassium level of 3.5 mEq/L
- C. Sodium level of 140 mEq/L
- D. Creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: A creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL should be reported to the provider immediately. While a lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L falls within the therapeutic range, a creatinine level of 1.0 mg/dL could suggest early signs of kidney dysfunction, especially concerning in a client on long-term lithium therapy. It is crucial to monitor kidney function closely because lithium can be nephrotoxic over time. Elevated creatinine levels may indicate impaired kidney function and should prompt immediate reporting to the healthcare provider. Potassium and sodium levels within normal range are not immediate concerns when compared to potential kidney issues.
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A client has a new prescription for Digoxin. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?
- A. Monitor your heart rate before taking the medication.
- B. Increase your intake of high-potassium foods.
- C. Take the medication with a full glass of milk.
- D. Expect your stools to be black and tarry.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Clients prescribed Digoxin should monitor their heart rate before each dose. This is essential to identify any potential bradycardia, defined as a heart rate below 60 bpm, which can be a side effect of Digoxin. Any significant changes in heart rate should be reported promptly to the healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.
Choice B is incorrect because increasing intake of high-potassium foods can lead to hyperkalemia, a condition that can be exacerbated by Digoxin. Choice C is incorrect as taking Digoxin with a full glass of milk is not necessary. Choice D is incorrect as black, tarry stools are not an expected side effect of Digoxin.
What is a desired outcome of the drug Phenytoin?
- A. Decrease symptoms of PTSD
- B. Resolution of signs of infection
- C. Decrease or cessation of seizures without excessive sedation
- D. Prevention or relief of bronchospasm
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: Decrease or cessation of seizures without excessive sedation. Phenytoin is primarily used as an antiepileptic medication to manage and prevent seizures. It does not directly impact symptoms of PTSD (Choice A), resolution of signs of infection (Choice B), or prevention or relief of bronchospasm (Choice D). Therefore, the desired outcome of Phenytoin is to control seizures effectively while avoiding excessive sedation.
A client has anemia and a new prescription for ferrous sulfate liquid. Which of the following instructions should the nurse provide?
- A. Take the medication on an empty stomach to decrease gastrointestinal irritation.
- B. Take the medication with orange juice to enhance absorption.
- C. Take the medication with milk.
- D. Rinse the mouth before taking the iron.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Taking ferrous sulfate with orange juice can help increase the absorption of iron. Orange juice contains vitamin C, which aids in the absorption of iron from the medication. This combination can enhance the effectiveness of the iron supplement for a client with anemia. Option A is incorrect because taking iron on an empty stomach can cause gastrointestinal upset. Option C is incorrect because calcium in milk can inhibit iron absorption. Option D is irrelevant to enhancing iron absorption.
In which patient could the drug Senna potentially be indicated?
- A. A patient with an eating disorder
- B. A patient who has not passed stool in 5 days
- C. A patient with anal fissures
- D. A patient with a history of hemorrhoids
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Senna is a stimulant laxative commonly used to treat constipation by stimulating bowel movements. It is typically indicated for patients who have not passed stool in several days, thereby helping to relieve constipation. Patients with eating disorders may require different treatments related to their condition. Patients with anal fissures or a history of hemorrhoids may need treatments targeted at those specific issues, which may not involve Senna.
A client has a new prescription for Methotrexate. Which of the following instructions should be included in the teaching?
- A. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
- B. Take the medication with a high-fat meal.
- C. Expect increased hair growth.
- D. You should never stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for a client taking Methotrexate is to avoid drinking alcohol. Methotrexate can cause liver toxicity, and alcohol consumption can increase this risk. It is important to emphasize the avoidance of alcohol while on this medication to prevent adverse effects and ensure treatment effectiveness. The other options are incorrect: Taking Methotrexate with a high-fat meal is not necessary as it can be taken with or without food. Increased hair growth is not an expected effect of Methotrexate; in fact, hair loss is a potential side effect. Stopping the medication without consulting a healthcare provider can be dangerous and may lead to worsening of symptoms or relapse, making option D incorrect.