A nurse is caring for a client who is taking allopurinol. Which of the following laboratory findings indicates the medication has been effective?
Decreased triglycerides
Decreased uric acid
Increased albumin
Increased potassium
The Correct Answer is B
B. Allopurinol is primarily prescribed to lower uric acid levels in the blood. It achieves this by inhibiting the enzyme xanthine oxidase, which is involved in the production of uric acid. Lowering uric acid levels helps prevent the formation of uric acid crystals, which can lead to gout attacks or kidney stones.
A. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. Allopurinol is not directly involved in lowering triglyceride levels. Medications that are typically used to lower triglycerides include statins, fibrates, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids.
C. Albumin is a protein found in the blood, and its levels can be affected by various factors such as liver or kidney function. Allopurinol is not known to directly influence albumin levels. Therefore, an increase in albumin would not be a laboratory finding indicative of the effectiveness of allopurinol.
D. Potassium levels in the blood can be influenced by medications, diet, kidney function, and other factors. Allopurinol is not typically associated with increasing potassium levels. In fact, certain medications used to treat gout, such as thiazide diuretics, can lead to increased potassium levels.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Slurred speech can be a symptom of lithium toxicity. As lithium levels rise in the blood, it can affect neurological function, leading to symptoms such as confusion, drowsiness, tremors, and slurred speech.
B. Stooped posture is not typically associated with lithium toxicity. It is more commonly associated with musculoskeletal issues or neurological disorders rather than lithium toxicity.
C. Elevated blood pressure is not a typical symptom of lithium toxicity. Lithium can actually have a protective effect on blood pressure, and hypertension is not commonly associated with lithium toxicity.
D. Dry cough is not a symptom of lithium toxicity. It is more commonly associated with respiratory conditions or medication side effects rather than lithium toxicity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
D. Prednisone can suppress the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Sore throat can be a sign of an infection, and it's important for clients taking prednisone to report any signs of infection, including sore throat, to their healthcare provider promptly.
A. Prednisone can cause sodium retention and fluid retention, leading to increased blood pressure and other complications. Therefore, clients taking prednisone should generally aim to limit their sodium intake rather than increase it.
B. Prednisone is typically taken with food or milk to help minimize gastrointestinal irritation. Taking prednisone on an empty stomach may increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects such as stomach upset or ulcers.
C. Weight gain, rather than weight loss, is a common side effect of prednisone. Prednisone can cause fluid retention, increased appetite, and redistribution of body fat, leading to weight gain.
Clients should be advised to watch for signs of weight gain and discuss any significant changes with their healthcare provider.
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