A client with anemia secondary to chronic kidney disease (CKD) started a prescription for epoetin alfa two months ago. Which client finding best indicates that the medication is effective?
Reference Range
- Hemoglobin (Hgb) [Reference Range: Male: 14 to 18 g/dL (8.7 to 11.2 mmol/L)]
Hemoglobin level increased to 12 g/dL (7.45 mmol/L).
Reports of increased energy levels and decreased fatigue.
Food diary shows increased consumption of iron-rich foods.
Takes concurrent iron therapy without adverse effects.
The Correct Answer is A
A: The primary therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa is to stimulate erythropoiesis, leading to an increase in hemoglobin levels. An increase to 12 g/dL demonstrates that the medication is effectively treating the anemia caused by CKD. Monitoring hemoglobin levels is the most objective and reliable indicator of the medication’s effectiveness.
B: While these subjective improvements can indicate an overall improvement in anemia-related symptoms, they are not the best or most definitive measure of the medication's effectiveness. Objective data, such as hemoglobin levels, provide more concrete evidence.
C: Increased consumption of iron-rich foods is beneficial for clients with anemia, but it is not a direct indicator of the effectiveness of epoetin alfa. Dietary changes can support overall health but do not provide evidence of the medication's impact on hemoglobin levels.
D: Taking concurrent iron therapy is common for clients receiving epoetin alfa, as iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells. However, the absence of adverse effects does not directly indicate the effectiveness of epoetin alfa in increasing hemoglobin levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
No explanation
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
choice A, Drawing the peak level two hours after the IV dose is too late to capture the drug's highest serum concentration. Similarly, drawing the trough two hours before the next dose does not reflect the lowest drug level accurately.
Choice B,Drawing the peak level one hour after completion of the IV dose ensures an accurate measurement of the highest serum concentration, as vancomycin typically peaks within this time frame. Drawing the trough one hour before the next dose ensures the lowest concentration of the drug is measured, providing precise therapeutic monitoring.
Choice C is incorrect because drawing blood 30 minutes into the IV dose would not allow the full dose to circulate and reach peak levels in the bloodstream.
Choice D.Drawing the peak level immediately after the completion of the IV dose is too early, as the drug needs time to distribute in the bloodstream and reach its highest concentration. While drawing the trough 30 minutes before the next dose is appropriate, the incorrect timing of the peak makes this option unsuitable.
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