HESI RN Exit Exam 2023 Capstone Related

Review HESI RN Exit Exam 2023 Capstone related questions and content

The nurse is assessing a client with rheumatoid arthritis who is taking a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Which laboratory value should the nurse monitor?

  • A. Potassium
  • B. Hemoglobin
  • C. Serum creatinine
  • D. White blood cell count
Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When a client with rheumatoid arthritis is taking NSAIDs, the nurse should monitor serum creatinine levels. NSAIDs can potentially cause kidney damage, so monitoring creatinine levels helps assess for renal impairment. While monitoring hemoglobin, potassium, and white blood cell count may also be relevant in some cases, serum creatinine is the priority due to the risk of renal complications associated with NSAID use.