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 {"dropdown-group-1":"B","dropdown-group-2":"A"}
Explanation
The client is at risk for developing cardiac arrhythmia due to hypokalemia.
Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, which are irregular heartbeats. The client’s potassium level is 3.1 mEq/L, which is below the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L). This, combined with his symptoms of dizziness, palpitations, and weakness, indicates a risk for developing cardiac arrhythmias.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Sucralfate should be taken on an empty stomach, not with meals, to ensure it coats the ulcer effectively.
Choice B rationale
There is no need to reduce dietary fiber while taking sucralfate. Fiber intake does not interfere with the medication’s effectiveness.
Choice C rationale
Antacids should not be taken within 30 minutes before or after taking sucralfate, as they can interfere with its action.
Choice D rationale
Increasing fluid intake is recommended while taking sucralfate to help prevent constipation, a common side effect of the medication.
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