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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic commonly used to treat hypertension and edema. One of the potential side effects of hydrochlorothiazide is hypokalemia (low potassium levels). To help counteract this effect, it is important for the client to increase their daily intake of foods high in potassium, such as bananas, oranges, spinach, avocados, and potatoes. This helps maintain adequate potassium levels in the body.
The other options mentioned are incorrect:
Take the medication on an empty stomach: Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken with or without food. It does not need to be taken on an empty stomach.
Muscle weakness is an expected adverse effect: Muscle weakness is not a common or expected adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide. If the client experiences muscle weakness, they should notify their healthcare provider.
Take the medication at bedtime: Hydrochlorothiazide can be taken at any time of the day. There is no specific requirement to take it at bedtime. The dosing schedule should be determined based on the individual's needs and healthcare provider's instructions.
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
When reinforcing teaching with a client who has a duodenal ulcer and a new prescription for cimetidine, the nurse should include the following instructions:
"Avoid taking the medication at bedtime.": Cimetidine is most effective when taken during waking hours to help control gastric acid secretion. Taking it at bedtime may not provide optimal therapeutic benefits.
"You will need to continue taking this medication for up to 6 weeks.": Cimetidine is often prescribed for the treatment of duodenal ulcers and may require several weeks of continuous use to promote healing. It is important for the client to understand the duration of treatment and the need for adherence to the prescribed regimen.
The following statements are incorrect or not applicable:
"Drinking grapefruit juice while taking cimetidine can lead to toxicity.": Cimetidine does not have a known interaction with grapefruit juice. However, it is always important to consult the healthcare provider or pharmacist about potential drug interactions, including those related to specific foods or beverages.
"Take an antacid 30 minutes prior to taking cimetidine to minimize stomach upset.": Cimetidine is an H2 receptor antagonist that works by reducing stomach acid production. It is not necessary to take an antacid prior to taking cimetidine to minimize stomach upset. However, if the client experiences stomach upset or discomfort, they should consult their healthcare provider for further guidance on managing these symptoms.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.