A nurse is reviewing the medication history of a client. The nurse should identify that which of the following medications places the client at risk for hypokalemia?
Acyclovir 400 mg PO twice daily
Furosemide 80 mg PO daily
Cimetidine 300 mg PO four times per day
Meloxicam 5 mg PO once daily
The Correct Answer is B
Furosemide is a loop diuretic commonly prescribed for conditions such as hypertension and edema. One of the side effects of furosemide is the increased excretion of potassium in the urine, which can lead to low potassium levels in the body, known as hypokalemia. The other medications mentioned do not typically place the client at risk for hypokalemia: Acyclovir 400 mg PO twice daily: Acyclovir is an antiviral medication used to treat viral infections, such as herpes. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels. Cimetidine 300 mg PO four times per day: Cimetidine is a histamine H2 receptor antagonist commonly used to reduce stomach acid production. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels.
Meloxicam 5 mg PO once daily: Meloxicam is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief. It does not have a direct effect on potassium levels.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
When reinforcing teaching with a client who has a new prescription for aluminum hydroxide to treat heartburn, the nurse should include constipation as an adverse effect of the medication. Aluminum hydroxide is an antacid commonly used to neutralize stomach acid and provide relief from heartburn and indigestion. However, one of its potential side effects is constipation. Aluminum hydroxide can slow down intestinal motility, leading to infrequent or difficult bowel movements.
Hypertension: Aluminum hydroxide is not known to cause hypertension (high blood pressure). However, clients with pre-existing hypertension should be cautious when using antacids containing sodium bicarbonate, as the sodium content may impact blood pressure levels.
Flatulence: Flatulence (excessive gas) is not a common adverse effect of aluminum hydroxide. It primarily works by neutralizing stomach acid and does not typically cause increased gas production.
Headache: Headache is not commonly reported as an adverse effect of aluminum hydroxide. It is more likely to be associated with other factors such as the underlying condition causing heartburn or individual factors.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Elevating the head of the bed can help reduce the symptoms of GERD during sleep. By elevating the head, gravity can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the esophagus, reducing the occurrence of reflux.
The other statements do not demonstrate an understanding of the teaching: "I will sleep on my stomach with my head flat": Sleeping on the stomach can actually worsen the symptoms of GERD as it can increase the likelihood of stomach acid flowing back into the esophagus. It is generally recommended to sleep on the left side or back to minimize reflux.
"I will have a snack 1 hour before going to bed": Consuming a snack close to bedtime can increase the likelihood of reflux during sleep. It is generally recommended to avoid eating at least 2 to 3 hours before lying down to minimize reflux symptoms.
"I can have 6 ounces of alcohol before bed, to help me sleep": Alcohol can relax the lower esophageal sphincter (LES) and increase the risk of reflux. It is best to avoid alcohol before bedtime, especially for individuals with GERD.
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