The healthcare professional is assessing a client who presents with jaundice. Which assessment finding is most important for the healthcare professional to follow up on?
- A. Urine specific gravity of 1.03
- B. Frothy, tea-colored urine
- C. Clay-colored stools
- D. Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Elevated serum amylase and lipase levels are indicative of pancreatitis, a serious condition that can manifest with jaundice. Timely follow-up is crucial to manage pancreatitis and its complications effectively in a jaundiced client. Choices A, B, and C are less critical in this scenario. Urine specific gravity within normal range, frothy tea-colored urine, and clay-colored stools can be associated with various conditions but are not directly indicative of pancreatitis, which is the most concerning condition associated with jaundice.
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Signs of tolerance include:
- A. Needing higher doses for the same effect
- B. Reduced side effects over time
- C. Increased sensitivity to the drug
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A is correct because tolerance is defined by needing more drug for the same effect due to body adaptation, per pharmacokinetic principles. Choice B is incorrect as reduced side effects may occur but aren't the definition. Choice C is wrong because sensitivity decreases, not increases. Choice D is incorrect since only A fits.
Over-the-counter drugs that are safe to use include:
- A. Acetaminophen
- B. Aspirin
- C. Ibuprofen
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Choice D is correct because acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen are safe OTC options for pain/fever when used per guidelines, with well-established profiles. Choice A is incorrect alone as it's one drug. Choice B is wrong by itself because aspirin is just part. Choice C is incorrect solo since ibuprofen is only one option.
A client with a history of coronary artery disease is prescribed atorvastatin (Lipitor). What side effect should the nurse instruct the client to immediately report?
- A. Muscle pain or tenderness
- B. Constipation
- C. Dry mouth
- D. Drowsiness
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is 'Muscle pain or tenderness.' This can be a sign of rhabdomyolysis, a serious side effect of statins like atorvastatin (Lipitor). Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which muscle breakdown releases a protein that can damage the kidneys. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to report any muscle pain or tenderness immediately to prevent further complications. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they are not typically associated with atorvastatin (Lipitor) use or indicative of a serious adverse effect that requires immediate reporting.
Drugs that may cause anticholinergic effects include:
- A. Diphenhydramine
- B. Atenolol
- C. Lisinopril
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: Choice A is correct because diphenhydramine has strong anticholinergic effects (e.g., confusion, dry mouth), risky in the elderly, per Beers Criteria. Choice B is incorrect as atenolol (beta blocker) lacks anticholinergic action. Choice C is wrong because lisinopril (ACE inhibitor) doesn't affect cholinergic systems. Choice D is incorrect since only diphenhydramine applies.
A client with a history of chronic heart failure is being discharged. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Weigh yourself daily and report a weight gain of 2 pounds or more in a day.
- B. Restrict fluid intake to 2000 mL per day.
- C. Increase your salt intake to prevent electrolyte imbalance.
- D. Exercise vigorously at least three times a week.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to weigh yourself daily and report a weight gain of 2 pounds or more in a day. This instruction is crucial because daily weights help in early detection of fluid retention, a common complication in heart failure. Monitoring weight is essential for managing heart failure and preventing exacerbations. Choice B is incorrect because fluid restriction may be necessary in some cases of heart failure, but a general limit of 2000 mL per day is not appropriate without individual assessment. Choice C is incorrect as increasing salt intake can worsen fluid retention and exacerbate heart failure symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because while exercise is beneficial for heart health, vigorous exercise may not be suitable for all heart failure patients and should be tailored to their specific condition.