A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who is taking amitriptyline. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse report to the provider?
Hct 44%
WBC count 5,000/mm3
Potassium 4.2 mEq/L
Total bilirubin 1.5 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason:
Hct 44% is incorrect. A hematocrit (Hct) level of 44% falls within the normal range for most adults. It represents the proportion of red blood cells in the blood and is not typically concerning unless it significantly deviates from the normal range, indicating anemia or polycythemia.
Choice B Reason:
WBC count 5,000/mm3 is incorrect. A white blood cell (WBC) count of 5,000/mm3 falls within the normal range for adults, reflecting a normal immune response. There's usually no cause for immediate concern unless there are specific clinical symptoms or significant deviations from the normal range.
Choice C Reason:
Potassium 4.2 mEq/L is incorrect. A potassium level of 4.2 mEq/L is within the normal range for serum potassium levels. It's crucial to monitor potassium levels, especially with medications that can affect electrolyte balance, but this value falls within the typical range and may not prompt immediate action unless there are notable fluctuations or clinical symptoms related to potassium imbalance.
While the majority of the laboratory values provided fall within the normal range, the value that the nurse should consider reporting to the provider, particularly when a client is taking amitriptyline, is:
Choice D Reason:
Total bilirubin 1.5 mg/dL is correct. Elevated levels of total bilirubin might indicate potential liver function impairment. Amitriptyline, an antidepressant, can affect liver enzymes in some individuals, causing hepatic changes. Therefore, it's crucial to monitor liver function tests, including total bilirubin, during amitriptyline therapy. An increase in bilirubin levels could signal hepatotoxicity or liver dysfunction related to the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Weight loss is incorrect. While weight loss can be a side effect of citalopram, it's not typically considered a severe or urgent adverse effect that requires immediate reporting to the provider. It's more often observed in some individuals as a common side effect of this medication.
Choice B Reason:
Confusion can indicate a severe or uncommon adverse reaction to citalopram, especially in the context of treating major depression. It could potentially signify a serious condition that requires immediate attention. Reporting confusion promptly allows the healthcare provider to assess the situation and make appropriate adjustments to the medication regimen or provide additional interventions if necessary.
Choice C Reason:
Insomnia is incorrect. Insomnia is another potential side effect of citalopram. While it can affect the individual's quality of life, it's not typically an adverse effect that would be considered an urgent concern requiring immediate reporting to the provider.
Choice D Reason:
Bruxism is incorrect. Bruxism, or teeth grinding, is a less common side effect of citalopram. While it can cause discomfort or dental issues, it's not typically considered a priority adverse effect that necessitates immediate reporting to the provider compared to confusion, which might indicate a more serious or severe reaction.
Correct Answer is D
No explanation
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