A nurse is analyzing the lab results of a patient with liver failure and ascites who is on spironolactone. What lab findings should the nurse anticipate?
Decreased phosphate level
Decreased potassium level
Decreased chloride level
Decreased sodium level
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Phosphate levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium- sparing diuretic and does not typically affect phosphate levels.
Choice B rationale
Decreased potassium level is not typically expected in a patient taking spironolactone. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it can actually lead to increased potassium levels. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, other factors may influence potassium levels.
Choice C rationale
Chloride levels are not directly affected by spironolactone. Spironolactone primarily affects the balance of potassium and sodium in the body.
Choice D rationale
Sodium levels could potentially be decreased in a patient taking spironolactone, as it can cause the body to lose sodium. However, in the context of liver failure and ascites, sodium levels are often carefully managed.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Drinking a full glass of water after taking the medication is a good practice when taking calcium carbonate antacids. This helps to ensure that the medication is fully swallowed and reaches the stomach, where it can neutralize stomach acid.
Choice B rationale
Limiting sodium intake is not directly related to the use of calcium carbonate antacids. While a low-sodium diet may be recommended for other health reasons, it is not a specific recommendation for patients taking this medication.
Choice C rationale
Consuming the medication alongside dairy products to enhance absorption is not recommended. Calcium carbonate antacids can interact with dairy products, potentially leading to an excessive intake of calcium.
Choice D rationale
Reducing dietary fiber to counteract the potential side effect of diarrhea is not a typical recommendation for patients taking calcium carbonate antacids. While calcium carbonate can cause constipation in some people, it does not typically cause diarrhea.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
While swelling in the legs can be a side effect of some medications, it is not a measure of the effectiveness of sertraline. Sertraline is an antidepressant, and its effectiveness would be measured by improvements in mood and behavior.
Choice B rationale
An improvement in mood is a key indicator that the sertraline is effective. Sertraline is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression and other mood disorders. It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance.
Choice C rationale
While it’s important to monitor blood pressure in patients taking any medication, a blood pressure within the expected range is not specifically an indication of the effectiveness of sertraline.
Choice D rationale
Weight loss is not a primary indicator of the effectiveness of sertraline. While some patients may experience weight changes while taking this medication, it is not a measure of its effectiveness in treating depression or other mood disorders.
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