A nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings for a female client who is taking zidovudine to treat HIV. Which of the following should the nurse identify as an adverse finding associated with this medication?
Neutrophil count 650/mm³ (2,500 to 8,000/mm³).
Platelets 450,000/mm³ (150,000 to 400,000/mm³).
Hgb 17 g/dL (12 to 16 g/dL).
Creatinine 1.5 mg/dL (0.5 to 1 mg/dL).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A neutrophil count of 650/mm³ is significantly lower than the normal range (2,500 to 8,000/mm³) and indicates neutropenia, which is a known adverse effect of zidovudine. Neutropenia increases the risk of infections and requires close monitoring and potential dose adjustment or discontinuation of the medication.
Choice B rationale
A platelet count of 450,000/mm³ is slightly above the normal range (150,000 to 400,000/mm³) but is not typically associated with zidovudine toxicity. Zidovudine is more commonly associated with bone marrow suppression leading to anemia and neutropenia rather than thrombocytosis.
Choice C rationale
An Hgb level of 17 g/dL is above the normal range for females (12 to 16 g/dL) but is not a common adverse effect of zidovudine. Zidovudine is more likely to cause anemia, leading to lower hemoglobin levels rather than elevated levels.
Choice D rationale
A creatinine level of 1.5 mg/dL is within the upper limit of the normal range (0.5 to 1 mg/dL) and is not a typical adverse effect of zidovudine. Zidovudine primarily affects the bone marrow and does not have a significant impact on renal function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Experiencing a rash while taking allopurinol is not harmless. It can be a sign of a serious allergic reaction, such as Stevens-Johnson syndrome or toxic epidermal necrolysis.
Choice B rationale
Increasing fluid intake is crucial when taking allopurinol. It helps to prevent kidney stones and ensures that uric acid is effectively excreted from the body.
Choice C rationale
Increasing dietary fiber intake is not specifically related to the use of allopurinol. While fiber is beneficial for overall health, it does not directly impact the effectiveness or safety of allopurinol.
Choice D rationale
Taking one dose every hour until the pain subsides is incorrect and dangerous. Allopurinol should be taken as prescribed by a healthcare provider, typically once or twice daily.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Rifampin is an antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis and other bacterial infections. It does not have a known interaction with St. John’s wort.
Choice B rationale
Furosemide is a diuretic used to treat fluid retention and high blood pressure. It does not have a known interaction with St. John’s wort.
Choice C rationale
Citalopram is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression. St. John’s wort can interact with SSRIs like citalopram, potentially leading to serotonin syndrome, a serious condition caused by excessive levels of serotonin in the brain.
Choice D rationale
Allopurinol is used to treat gout and kidney stones. It does not have a known interaction with St. John’s wort.
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