A nurse is caring for a client who has prescriptions for spironolactone and lisinopril. The nurse should monitor for which of the following adverse effects?
Hypoglycemia
Hyperkalemia
Hyperglycemia
Hypokalemia
The Correct Answer is B
A. Hypoglycemia. Neither spironolactone nor lisinopril directly affects blood glucose levels. Hypoglycemia is more commonly associated with insulin, sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide), and excessive alcohol consumption, rather than potassium-sparing diuretics or ACE inhibitors.
B. Hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that promotes sodium excretion while retaining potassium, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, also raises potassium levels by reducing aldosterone secretion, which normally promotes potassium excretion. The combination of these two medications significantly increases the risk of dangerously high potassium levels, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and life-threatening complications. Clients should have serum potassium levels monitored regularly and be advised to avoid potassium-rich foods and supplements.
C. Hyperglycemia. Neither medication is known to cause hyperglycemia. Thiazide and loop diuretics are more likely to elevate blood glucose levels due to their effects on insulin sensitivity, but spironolactone and lisinopril do not share this effect.
D. Hypokalemia. Spironolactone prevents potassium loss, and lisinopril reduces potassium excretion, making hypokalemia unlikely. Hypokalemia is more commonly seen with loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), which promote potassium loss.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Meperidine. Meperidine is an opioid analgesic used for moderate to severe pain. It does not treat nausea and vomiting and can worsen these symptoms by delaying gastric emptying. Opioids also depress the central nervous system, which may cause dizziness and sedation.
B. Diazepam. Diazepam is a benzodiazepine used for anxiety, muscle spasms, and seizures. It has no antiemetic effects and does not relieve nausea or vomiting. Instead, it can cause dizziness and drowsiness, which may further discomfort the client.
C. Naloxone. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist used to reverse opioid-induced respiratory depression. Since the client’s nausea is not opioid-related, naloxone would not be beneficial. Its administration can also cause withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent clients.
D. Promethazine. Promethazine is an antiemetic that blocks histamine and dopamine receptors in the brain, reducing nausea and vomiting. It is commonly used for motion sickness, post-surgical nausea, and gastrointestinal illnesses, making it the appropriate choice for this client.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Tinnitus. Nitrofurantoin is not commonly associated with ototoxicity or tinnitus. Medications such as aminoglycosides and loop diuretics are more likely to cause this adverse effect. While nitrofurantoin can have some neurological side effects, tinnitus is not a primary concern.
B. Abdominal cramping. Gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and vomiting can occur with nitrofurantoin, especially if taken on an empty stomach. However, abdominal cramping is usually mild and not a serious adverse effect requiring discontinuation of the medication. Taking the drug with food can help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
C. Stevens-Johnson syndrome. Stevens-Johnson syndrome (SJS) is a rare but serious hypersensitivity reaction that can occur with nitrofurantoin use. It presents with flu-like symptoms, followed by a painful rash, blistering, and skin peeling. Immediate discontinuation and medical intervention are required if symptoms develop, as SJS can be life-threatening.
D. Insomnia. Nitrofurantoin does not commonly cause insomnia. Some medications, such as corticosteroids and stimulants, are more likely to interfere with sleep. Nitrofurantoin’s side effects primarily affect the gastrointestinal, pulmonary, and dermatologic systems rather than sleep patterns.
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