The client is in end-stage renal disease and is receiving sodium polystyrene sulfonate (Kayexalate) via an enema. Which data indicate the medication is effective?
- A. The client has 30 mL/hr of urine output.
- B. The serum phosphorus level has decreased.
- C. The client is in normal sinus rhythm.
- D. The client's serum potassium level is 5 mEq/L.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Kayexalate lowers serum potassium in hyperkalemia; a level of 5 mEq/L (normal) indicates effectiveness. Urine, phosphorus, or rhythm are unrelated.
You may also like to solve these questions
The client diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS) is receiving Lioresal (baclofen), a muscle relaxant. Which information should the nurse teach the client/family?
- A. The importance of tapering off medication when discontinuing medication.
- B. Baclofen may cause diarrhea, so the client should take antidiarrheal medication.
- C. The client should not be allowed to drive alone while taking this medication.
- D. The need for follow-up visits to obtain a monthly white blood cell count.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Baclofen requires tapering to prevent withdrawal symptoms, like seizures, per FDA warnings. Diarrhea, driving, or WBC counts are not primary concerns.
The client diagnosed with diabetes insipidus is receiving vasopressin intranasally. Which assessment data indicate the medication is effective?
- A. The client reports being able to breathe through the nose.
- B. The client complains of being thirsty all the time.
- C. The client has a blood glucose of 99 mg/dL.
- D. The client is urinating every three (3) to four (4) hours.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Vasopressin reduces polyuria in diabetes insipidus; urination every 3–4 hours indicates effectiveness. Nasal breathing, thirst, or glucose are unrelated.
A client is receiving external beam radiation to the mediastinum for treatment of bronchial cancer. Addressing which of the following should take priority in planning care?
- A. Esophagitis
- B. Leukopenia
- C. Fatigue
- D. Skin irritation
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Leukopenia. Clients develop leukopenia due to the depressant effect of radiation therapy on bone marrow function. Infection is the most frequent cause of morbidity and death in clients with cancer.
An adult client is being treated for genital herpes with acyclovir (Zovirax) tablets. Which statement she makes indicates that she understands her therapy?
- A. It is safe now to have sexual relations.
- B. I will stay home from work until the blisters are gone.
- C. This medicine will cure the herpes infection.
- D. If the blisters come back, I will start taking the pills immediately.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Acyclovir reduces symptoms and recurrence of herpes but does not cure it. Starting treatment at recurrence is appropriate.
Prior to administering Alteplase (TPA) to a client admitted for a cerebral vascular accident (CVA), it is critical that the nurse assess:
- A. Neuro signs
- B. Mental status
- C. Blood pressure
- D. PT/PTT
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: PT/PTT. TPA is a potent thrombolytic enzyme. Because bleeding is the most common side effect, it is most essential to evaluate clotting studies including PT, PTT, APTT, platelets, and hematocrit before beginning therapy.