A nurse is preparing to report laboratory results to the provider for a client who is taking clozapine. For which of the following findings does the nurse anticipate a prescription to discontinue clozapine?
Magnesium 2.5 mEq/L (1.3 to 2.1 mEq/L)
Potassium 5.4 mEq/L (3.5 to 5 mEq/L)
WBC 2,500/mm³ (5,000 to 10,000/mm³)
Sodium 134 mEq/L (136 to 145 mEq/L)
The Correct Answer is C
A. Magnesium 2.5 mEq/L: A magnesium level slightly above the normal range does not indicate an immediate need to discontinue clozapine, as this level is not related to the adverse effects of the drug.
B. Potassium 5.4 mEq/L: While elevated potassium levels can pose a health risk, this is not a direct indicator to discontinue clozapine. Potassium levels can be managed with other interventions.
C. WBC 2,500/mm³: Clozapine carries a risk of agranulocytosis, a condition where the white blood cell (WBC) count becomes dangerously low, leading to severe infection risk. A WBC count of 2,500/mm³ is below the normal range and indicates the need to discontinue clozapine immediately.
D. Sodium 134 mEq/L: A slightly low sodium level is not typically related to clozapine use and does not warrant discontinuation of the medication.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Dyspepsia: While dyspepsia can be uncomfortable, it is not a critical finding that requires immediate reporting to the provider. It may be a common side effect of statins but typically does not warrant urgent intervention.
B. Elevated creatine kinase: An elevated creatine kinase level can indicate muscle damage, which is a serious side effect associated with rosuvastatin and other statins. This finding requires immediate reporting to prevent complications such as rhabdomyolysis.
C. Headache: A headache may occur with many medications and does not usually require immediate reporting unless it is severe or persistent.
D. Mostly cloudy: This option does not pertain to any specific clinical finding or symptom and is therefore not relevant to the question.
E. Decreased HDL cholesterol: While low HDL cholesterol can be a concern, it is not as urgent as elevated creatine kinase levels and typically does not require immediate action.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Increase fluids while taking the medication: Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that can cause anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth and constipation. Increasing fluid intake helps to mitigate these effects and prevent dehydration and constipation.
B. Expect an elevation in blood pressure with initial doses of the medication: Amitriptyline can cause orthostatic hypotension rather than elevated blood pressure. Clients should be informed about the risk of dizziness or fainting.
C. Stop the medication immediately if urine becomes orange in color: Orange urine is not a common side effect of amitriptyline. Clients should not stop the medication without consulting their provider.
D. Take the medication in the morning: Amitriptyline has sedative effects and is typically taken at night to help manage sleep disturbances and reduce daytime drowsiness.
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