A nurse is caring for an older adult client who has rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and is taking aspirin 650 mg every 4 hours.

Which of the following diagnostic tests should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of this medication?

Choice A rationale:
Positive Kernig’s sign is a clinical sign of meningitis, not specifically increased ICP12.
Choice B rationale:
Photophobia, or light sensitivity, is a symptom of meningitis but does not specifically indicate increased ICP12.
Choice C rationale:
Nuchal rigidity, or neck stiffness, is another symptom of meningitis, not a specific indicator of increased ICP12.
Choice D rationale:
Restlessness can be a sign of increased ICP as it may indicate changes in mental status, a key symptom of increased ICP12.

The correct answer is: A

Choice A Reason: Hypokalemia refers to a lower-than-normal level of potassium in the bloodstream. Normal potassium levels are typically between 3.5 and 5.0 mEq/L. In the context of nephrotic syndrome and high-dose corticosteroid therapy, hypokalemia can occur due to increased urinary potassium losses caused by corticosteroid-induced alterations in kidney function. Corticosteroids can promote the excretion of potassium, leading to a deficiency.

Choice B Reason: Hypomagnesemia is a condition where there is a magnesium deficiency in the blood, with normal levels usually ranging between 1.7 and 2.2 mg/dL. While it can occur in nephrotic syndrome due to urinary losses of proteins that bind magnesium, it is not typically associated with corticosteroid therapy. Therefore, it is less likely to be monitored in this specific scenario.

Choice C Reason: Hypermagnesemia indicates an abnormally high level of magnesium in the blood. This condition is relatively rare and is not commonly associated with nephrotic syndrome or corticosteroid therapy. It is more often related to renal failure or excessive intake of magnesium-containing medications or supplements.

Choice D Reason: Hyperkalemia is characterized by an elevated level of potassium in the blood, with normal levels being 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L. While hyperkalemia can occur in nephrotic syndrome due to the loss of albumin in the urine, which can affect calcium and potassium binding, corticosteroid therapy typically causes a decrease in potassium levels, making hypokalemia a more relevant concern in this context.