A client who is taking metformin presents to the clinic reporting feeling unwell. Which clinical finding is most concerning to the nurse?
Diarrhea
Shallow breathing
Nausea
Metallic taste
The Correct Answer is B
A. Diarrhea: Gastrointestinal upset, including diarrhea, is a common and generally mild side effect of metformin. While uncomfortable, it is usually self-limiting and does not indicate a life-threatening condition.
B. Shallow breathing: Shallow or labored breathing is concerning because it may indicate lactic acidosis, a rare but potentially fatal complication of metformin. Lactic acidosis occurs due to accumulation of lactate when metformin impairs mitochondrial gluconeogenesis, requiring immediate medical evaluation.
C. Nausea: Nausea is a common gastrointestinal side effect of metformin. While it may contribute to dehydration or decreased oral intake, it is usually manageable and does not require emergent intervention unless severe.
D. Metallic taste: A metallic taste in the mouth is a minor and non-life-threatening side effect of metformin. It does not pose significant health risks and is not typically a cause for urgent concern.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Ileus: Octreotide can significantly slow gastrointestinal motility by inhibiting the secretion of gastrointestinal hormones and reducing peristalsis. Development of an ileus is a serious complication because it can lead to bowel obstruction, abdominal distention, pain, and potential ischemia, requiring immediate medical evaluation.
B. Sinusitis: While sinusitis can occur as a nonspecific side effect, it is generally mild and not life-threatening. It does not directly relate to the pharmacologic effects of octreotide on the gastrointestinal or endocrine systems.
C. Vomiting: Vomiting is a known but less severe gastrointestinal side effect of octreotide. Although uncomfortable, it is usually self-limiting and can be managed with supportive care or dose adjustment, unlike an ileus.
D. Headache: Headaches are a common and generally mild adverse effect associated with octreotide. They are typically transient and do not indicate a serious pharmacologic complication or systemic risk requiring immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Inhibits the synthesis of thyroid hormones: Methimazole is an antithyroid medication that works by blocking the thyroid gland’s ability to produce thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3). By inhibiting hormone synthesis, it helps manage hyperthyroidism, reducing symptoms such as rapid heart rate, weight loss, anxiety, and heat intolerance, and preventing further complications.
B. Inhibits development of female sex hormones: Methimazole does not have any effect on estrogen, progesterone, or other female sex hormones. Its pharmacologic action is specific to thyroid hormone synthesis and does not influence reproductive hormone pathways.
C. Replaces endogenous thyroid hormones: Thyroid hormone replacement therapy, such as levothyroxine, is designed to supplement or replace deficient thyroid hormones in hypothyroidism. Methimazole does not replace hormones but instead decreases their production in hyperthyroid states.
D. Promotes development of female sex hormones: Methimazole does not stimulate or promote the production of any sex hormones. Its mechanism is limited to inhibiting thyroid hormone synthesis, and it has no role in reproductive hormone regulation.
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