A nurse is caring for a client receiving an intermittent IV bolus of gentamicin twice daily. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor while the client is receiving this medication? (Select all that apply.)
Glucose.
Prothrombin time.
Serum creatinine.
Cardiac enzymes.
WBC count.
Correct Answer : C,E
Choice A rationale
Monitoring glucose levels is not typically necessary for patients receiving gentamicin, as it does not significantly affect glucose metabolism.
Choice B rationale
Prothrombin time is not commonly affected by gentamicin, so routine monitoring is not required.
Choice C rationale
Serum creatinine levels should be monitored to assess kidney function, as gentamicin can cause nephrotoxicity.
Choice D rationale
Cardiac enzymes are not typically affected by gentamicin, so routine monitoring is not necessary.
Choice E rationale
Monitoring WBC count is important to detect any signs of infection or bone marrow suppression, which can occur with gentamicin use.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Naloxone is an opioid antagonist that rapidly reverses the effects of opioid overdose, including respiratory depression. It binds to opioid receptors and displaces the opioid molecules, reversing their effects.
Choice B rationale
Bisacodyl is a stimulant laxative used to treat constipation. It does not have any effect on opioid-induced respiratory depression.
Choice C rationale
Flumazenil is a benzodiazepine antagonist used to reverse the effects of benzodiazepines, not opioids. It is not effective in treating opioid-induced respiratory depression.
Choice D rationale
Pentazocine is an opioid agonist-antagonist used for pain relief. It does not reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression and can potentially worsen the condition.
Correct Answer is {"dropdown-group-1":"A","dropdown-group-2":"D"}
Explanation
The nurse should first address the client’s oxygen saturation, followed by the client’s blood pressure.
Addressing the oxygen saturation is crucial because the client’s level has dropped significantly to 86%, indicating potential respiratory distress or hypoxia. Following that, the nurse should address the blood pressure, which has also dropped, indicating possible hemodynamic instability.
Let’s break down the case notes to understand why addressing the client’s oxygen saturation and blood pressure is critical:
Oxygen Saturation
- Initial Vital Signs (1200): The client’s oxygen saturation was 100% on 2 L oxygen via nasal cannula.
- Current Vital Signs (1220): The oxygen saturation has dropped to 86% on the same oxygen support.
This significant drop in oxygen saturation indicates that the client is not receiving adequate oxygen, which can lead to hypoxia. Hypoxia can cause severe complications, including organ damage. Therefore, improving oxygenation is the top priority.
Blood Pressure
- Initial Vital Signs (1200): The client’s blood pressure was 110/75 mm Hg.
- Current Vital Signs (1220): The blood pressure has decreased to 90/60 mm Hg.
The drop in blood pressure suggests that the client is experiencing hemodynamic instability, which could be due to several factors, including dehydration, blood loss, or a reaction to anesthesia. Low blood pressure can lead to inadequate perfusion of vital organs, which is why it needs to be addressed promptly after stabilizing the oxygen saturation.
Other Symptoms
- Muscle Rigidity: The client is experiencing painful muscle rigidity, which could be a sign of a serious condition like malignant hyperthermia, especially given the elevated temperature.
- Temperature: The client’s temperature has spiked to 40.2°C (104.4°F), indicating a possible infection or reaction.
- Heart Rate: The heart rate has increased to 125/min, which could be a compensatory response to low blood pressure and hypoxia.
- Nausea and Vomiting: The client has vomited twice, which could contribute to dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.
Conclusion
By addressing the oxygen saturation first, the nurse ensures that the client is receiving adequate oxygen, which is essential for all bodily functions. Following that, stabilizing the blood pressure is crucial to ensure proper perfusion and prevent further complications.
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