The client with trigeminal neuralgia tells the nurse that acetaminophen (Tylenol) is taken daily for the relief of generalized discomfort. Which laboratory value would indicate toxicity associated with the medication?
- A. Sodium level of 140 mEq/l.
- B. Direct bilirubin level of 2 mg/dl
- C. Prothrombin time of 12 seconds
- D. Platelet count of 400,000/mm3
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Direct bilirubin level of 2 mg/dl. Acetaminophen toxicity can lead to liver damage, causing an increase in bilirubin levels. Direct bilirubin specifically indicates liver function. A: Sodium level is not related to acetaminophen toxicity. C: Prothrombin time is a measure of blood clotting, not indicative of acetaminophen toxicity. D: Platelet count is not affected by acetaminophen toxicity.
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While monitoring a client for the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), the nurse should take note of what assessment parameters?
- A. Platelet count, prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time
- B. Platelet count, blood glucose levels, and white blood cell (WBC) count
- C. Thrombin time, calcium levels, and potassium levels
- D. Fibrinogen level, WBC, and platelet count
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Platelet count, prothrombin time, and partial thromboplastin time. These parameters are essential in monitoring DIC because platelet count reflects the risk of bleeding, while prolonged prothrombin time and partial thromboplastin time indicate impaired clotting function, which is characteristic of DIC.
Explanation for why other choices are incorrect:
- Choice B: Blood glucose levels and WBC count are not specific indicators for DIC monitoring.
- Choice C: Thrombin time, calcium levels, and potassium levels do not directly assess clotting abnormalities associated with DIC.
- Choice D: While fibrinogen level is important in DIC, WBC count alone is not a specific indicator for monitoring DIC.
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) is ordered for an adult client. Which nutrient is not likely to be in the solution?
- A. dextrose
- B. electrolytes
- C. trace minerals
- D. amino acids
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: The correct answer is C: trace minerals. TPN solutions typically include dextrose for energy, electrolytes for maintaining fluid balance, and amino acids for protein synthesis. Trace minerals are not typically included in TPN solutions as they are only required in small amounts and can be toxic in excess. Therefore, it is not likely to be in the solution. The other choices (A, B, D) are essential components of TPN solutions necessary for meeting the nutritional needs of the patient.
The nurse is taking vital signs of a pregnant woman during her first prenatal visit. The patient asks the nurse if she has to have an HIV test. Which of the following is the nurse’s best response?
- A. “Yes, all pregnant women must have the test.”
- B. “If you do not have multiple sex partners or inject drugs, it is not necessary.”
- C. “Governmental guidelines require an HIV test for all pregnant woman.”
- D. “After voluntary pretest counseling, you decide whether HIV testing should be done.”
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Rationale for Correct Answer (A): The nurse's best response is to inform the pregnant woman that all pregnant women must have an HIV test. This is because HIV testing is a standard part of prenatal care to prevent mother-to-child transmission. It is crucial to detect HIV early to provide appropriate treatment and prevent transmission to the baby.
Summary of Incorrect Choices:
B: This response could lead to misinformation and potentially harm the patient and her baby. HIV testing is recommended for all pregnant women regardless of risk factors.
C: While governmental guidelines may vary, it is essential for all pregnant women to undergo HIV testing to ensure the health of both the mother and the baby.
D: While it is important to provide counseling and involve the patient in decision-making, in the case of HIV testing during pregnancy, it is a standard procedure that should be offered to all pregnant women to safeguard their health and that of their baby.
What is the most important postoperative instruction the nurse must give a client who has just returned from the operating room after receiving a subarachnoid block?
- A. “Avoid drinking liquids until the gag reflex returns.”
- B. “Avoid eating milk products for 24 hours.”
- C. “Notify a nurse if you experience blood in your urine.”
- D. “Remain supine for the time specified by the physician.”
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: “Remain supine for the time specified by the physician.” After a subarachnoid block, the client must remain lying down to prevent complications like spinal headaches due to cerebrospinal fluid leakage. This position helps maintain adequate spinal fluid pressure. Choice A is incorrect as fluid intake is important postoperatively. Choice B is not relevant to a subarachnoid block. Choice C is important but not the most crucial instruction compared to maintaining the supine position.
The most effective pharmacologic agent for the treatment of Parkinson’s disease is:
- A. Levodopa
- B. Selegilene
- C. Permax
- D. Symmetrel
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Levodopa. Levodopa is the most effective pharmacologic agent for treating Parkinson's disease because it is converted to dopamine in the brain, replenishing the deficient dopamine levels in Parkinson's patients. Selegiline and Symmetrel are also used in treating Parkinson's, but they are typically used as adjunctive therapy rather than the primary treatment. Permax has been withdrawn from the market due to safety concerns, making it an incorrect choice.