A nurse is caring for a client who has a fungal infection and has a new prescription for amphotericin
Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse report to the provider before initiating the medication?
Sodium 140 mEq/L B. Glucose 120 mg/dL
Potassium 4.5 mEq/L
BUN 55 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Sodium levels in the blood are typically between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). A sodium level of 140 mEq/L falls within this range, indicating normal sodium levels. Sodium plays a key role in your body. It helps maintain normal blood pressure, supports the work of your nerves and muscles, and regulates your body’s fluid balance. A normal sodium level is therefore crucial for the body’s overall function.
Choice B rationale:
A glucose level of 120 mg/dL is considered normal for a fasting blood sugar test. Glucose is your body’s main source of energy. It comes from the food you eat and is carried through your bloodstream to the cells of your body. If the glucose level in the blood is too high or too low, it can indicate a medical condition such as diabetes.
Choice C rationale:
Potassium levels in the blood are typically between 3.6 and 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). A potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L falls within this range, indicating normal potassium levels. Potassium is a type of electrolyte that is vital to the function of nerve and muscle cells, including those in your heart. Your blood potassium level is normally 3.6 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Having a blood potassium level higher than 6.0 mmol/L can be dangerous and usually requires immediate treatment.
Choice D rationale:
The Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) test is a routine test used to assess kidney function. Urea nitrogen is a waste product that’s created in your liver when the body breaks down proteins. Healthy kidneys filter urea nitrogen from your blood, but when your kidneys aren’t working well, the BUN level rises. The normal range for BUN is typically around 7-20 mg/dL2. A BUN level of 55 mg/dL is significantly higher than the normal range, indicating that the kidneys may not be functioning properly. This is a critical finding that should be reported to the provider before initiating the medication amphotericin B. Amphotericin B is an antifungal medication used to treat serious, life-threatening fungal infections. However, it is known for its severe and potentially lethal side effects, including kidney damage. Therefore, a high BUN level should be reported to the provider before initiating this medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Liothyronine (Cytomel) is a type of thyroid hormone used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. However, it is not typically used to treat hyperthyroidism.
Choice B rationale:
Liotrix (Thyrolar) is a combination of two thyroid hormones, levothyroxine (T4) and liothyronine (T3), used to treat hypothyroidism, and to prevent and treat goiter. Similar to Liothyronine, it is not typically used to treat hyperthyroidism. Choice C rationale:
Levothyroxine (Synthroid) is used to treat an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). It replaces or provides more thyroid hormone, which is normally produced by the thyroid gland. Low thyroid hormone levels can occur naturally or when the thyroid gland is injured by radiation/medications or removed by surgery. Having enough thyroid hormone helps maintain normal mental and physical activity. In children, having enough thyroid hormone helps them grow and learn normally.
Choice D rationale:
Propylthiouracil (Propacil) is an antithyroid agent used in the treatment of hyperthyroidism. It works by decreasing the amount of thyroid hormone produced by the thyroid gland. This helps to prevent the excessive heat, rapid heart rate, and nervousness caused by too much thyroid hormone in the body.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Bounding peripheral pulses are not typically associated with diabetes insipidus. Diabetes insipidus is a condition characterized by excessive thirst and excretion of large amounts of severely dilute urine.
Choice B rationale:
Moist mucous membranes are not a common finding in diabetes insipidus. In fact, due to excessive urination, patients may experience dehydration which can lead to dry mucous membranes.
Choice C rationale:
Bradycardia, or a slower than normal heart rate, is not a typical symptom of diabetes insipidus. The condition does not directly affect the heart rate.
Choice D rationale:
Decreased urine specific gravity is a key finding in diabetes insipidus. The condition causes an imbalance of water in the body, leading to the production of large amounts of dilute (or low specific gravity) urine.
Please note that these rationales are based on general knowledge about diabetes insipidus and the specific symptoms mentioned in the choices. For a more detailed understanding, it’s recommended to refer to medical textbooks or consult with healthcare professionals.
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