A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed carbidopa-levadopa [Sinemet]. Which of the following side effects does the nurse recognize can occur with this medication?

Jaundice

Hyperglycemia

Hypertension

Orthostatic hypotension

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

A) Jaundice:
Carbidopa-levodopa works by increasing dopamine levels in the brain to help alleviate symptoms of Parkinson's disease, but it is not typically associated with liver dysfunction that would lead to jaundice. If jaundice were to occur, it could indicate liver problems, which would need to be evaluated further, but this is not a typical side effect of Sinemet.

B) Hyperglycemia:
Sinemet primarily affects dopamine levels in the brain and does not have a direct impact on blood sugar regulation. However, long-term use of certain medications, especially corticosteroids or other specific treatments, can affect glucose levels, but carbidopa-levodopa is not typically linked to hyperglycemia.

C) Hypertension:

Carbidopa-levodopa may lead to fluctuations in blood pressure, including lowering blood pressure, especially when the patient is changing positions. However, hypertension is not a typical response to this medication. Instead, patients may experience orthostatic hypotension, which is more common with carbidopa-levodopa.

D) Orthostatic hypotension:
Orthostatic hypotension is a well-recognized and common side effect of carbidopa-levodopa. This occurs because Sinemet affects the autonomic nervous system, which can cause a decrease in blood pressure when moving from a sitting or lying position to standing. Patients on carbidopa-levodopa should be advised to rise slowly to minimize the risk of dizziness or fainting due to orthostatic hypotension.

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Free Nursing Study Resources

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A) The UAP stands by the patient's bed for 60 minutes talking with the patient:
This action requires immediate intervention because of the potential radiation exposure to the UAP. A temporary radioactive cervical implant involves placing a radioactive source in or near the patient's cervix. This implant emits radiation, and safety precautions are essential to limit exposure to others, including healthcare workers. Prolonged close contact, such as standing by the patient's bed for 60 minutes, increases the risk of radiation exposure to the UAP.

B) The UAP gives the patient a saline mouthwash to use for oral care:
There are no specific contraindications to using a saline mouthwash for oral care in patients with a radioactive implant. Saline mouthwash is commonly recommended for patients undergoing radiation therapy to soothe the mouth and prevent dryness or irritation. As long as the UAP is following standard infection control and safety precautions.

C) The UAP places the patient's bedding in the laundry container inside the client's room:
Bedding and linens from a patient with a radioactive implant can usually be handled and disposed of according to hospital guidelines for radioactive waste. Often, these linens are not considered to pose a significant radiation hazard after removal from the patient’s immediate area, especially if the patient is not emitting radiation outside the prescribed safety guidelines.

D) The UAP flushes the toilet twice after emptying the patient's bedpan:
After the patient has a radioactive implant, any bodily waste (urine, stool) can potentially contain small amounts of radiation. Flushing the toilet twice helps to ensure that any radioactive materials are effectively cleared. However, the UAP should be instructed to wear gloves and take other precautions to prevent contamination while handling the bedpan and ensuring proper disposal of waste.

A. Sodium 136 mEq/L B. Potassium 4.5 mEq/L C. Calcium 10 mg/dL D. Potassium 2.9 mEq/L

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A) Sodium 136 mEq/L:
A sodium level of 136 mEq/L is within the normal reference range of 135–145 mEq/L. While clients with heart failure may experience fluid shifts and altered sodium levels, this result does not immediately require reporting to the provider. Sodium at this level is considered normal.

B) Potassium 4.5 mEq/L:
A potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L is within the normal range of 3.5–5.0 mEq/L, making it a safe and appropriate level. There is no immediate concern regarding potassium levels here, so no action is required. This value does not need to be reported to the provider.

C) Calcium 10 mg/dL:
The normal range for calcium is generally between 8.5–10.5 mg/dL. A calcium level of 10 mg/dL is within this normal range, so this finding does not require further action. No reporting is necessary to the provider.

D) Potassium 2.9 mEq/L:
A potassium level of 2.9 mEq/L is below the normal range (3.5–5.0 mEq/L) and is considered hypokalemia. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can cause potassium depletion by increasing renal excretion of potassium. This is a serious concern because hypokalemia can lead to dangerous cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and other complications. The nurse should immediately report this low potassium level to the provider so that potassium supplementation or adjustments in diuretic therapy can be made.

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A client with Parkinson's disease is prescribed carbidopa-levadopa [Sinemet]. Which of the following side effects does the nurse recognize can occur with this medication?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

The nurse supervises the care of a patient with a temporary radioactive cervical implant. Which action by unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP), if observed by the nurse, would require immediate intervention?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse is reviewing the serum laboratory findings for a client who has heart failure and is prescribed furosemide. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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