A nurse is taking care of a patient that has a new prescription for labetalol (beta blocker). What adverse effect should the nurse include in the medication education?
Hypokalemia
Bleeding
Bradycardia
Seizures
The Correct Answer is C
A) Hypokalemia:
Hypokalemia (low potassium levels) is not a common adverse effect of labetalol. While some medications, such as diuretics, can lead to hypokalemia, labetalol does not typically affect potassium levels directly. Instead, labetalol's primary effects are on blood pressure and heart rate.
B) Bleeding:
Bleeding is not a typical adverse effect of labetalol. Labetalol is a beta blocker that works by blocking beta-adrenergic receptors, which lowers heart rate and blood pressure. It does not interfere with blood clotting or platelet function, so bleeding would not be a concern unless the patient is on other medications that affect coagulation (such as anticoagulants).
C) Bradycardia:
Bradycardia, or a slow heart rate, is a well-known and common adverse effect of beta blockers like labetalol. Labetalol works by blocking the beta-1 adrenergic receptors in the heart, which can reduce heart rate and lower blood pressure. In some individuals, this can result in bradycardia, which could lead to symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, and fainting.
D) Seizures:
Seizures are not a typical adverse effect of labetalol. Although central nervous system effects like dizziness or fatigue can occur due to the blood pressure-lowering effects, seizures are not commonly associated with this medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The client who has a nasogastric (NG) tube to suction:
A nasogastric (NG) tube that is used for suction can lead to the loss of gastric fluids, which are rich in potassium. Prolonged suctioning can cause the client to lose significant amounts of potassium, putting them at risk for hypokalemia. Potassium is an essential electrolyte that is vital for proper muscle and nerve function, and its loss can result in symptoms such as weakness, arrhythmias, and fatigue.
B) The client who has a chest tube to water seal:
A chest tube to water seal is used to drain air or fluid from the pleural space, typically following surgery or trauma. While chest tube drainage can lead to fluid loss, it is not directly associated with significant electrolyte imbalances like hypokalemia. The primary concern with chest tubes is fluid balance and preventing infection, but it does not specifically cause potassium loss unless there are other contributing factors, such as excessive diuresis or vomiting.
C) The client who has an indwelling urinary catheter to gravity drainage:
An indwelling urinary catheter primarily allows for the drainage of urine, and while it may contribute to fluid and electrolyte loss (especially if there is excessive urination or diuresis), it is not directly linked to hypokalemia unless the client is receiving medications (e.g., diuretics) that cause potassium loss through urine. The catheter itself does not significantly increase the risk of hypokalemia unless other factors are involved.
D) The client who has a tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen:
A tracheostomy tube attached to humidified oxygen helps with respiratory support and does not directly affect potassium levels. The primary concern with tracheostomies is airway management, preventing infection, and ensuring proper oxygenation. It is not associated with electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia. However, if the client experiences issues such as excessive fluid loss through respiratory secretions or complications like infection, it could indirectly affect electrolyte levels, but it is not a direct cause of hypokalemia.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Heart failure:
While heart failure can cause a variety of symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, and nocturnal respiratory disturbances, it is not a direct cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, heart failure can exacerbate the effects of sleep apnea, particularly in individuals who already have OSA, leading to a condition known as "central sleep apnea with Cheyne-Stokes respiration.
B) Brainstem injury:
Brainstem injury can affect the regulation of breathing and may lead to central sleep apnea, where the brain fails to send the proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. However, brainstem injury does not directly cause obstructive sleep apnea, which is typically caused by physical blockages or obstructions in the upper airway.
C) Recent weight loss:
Recent weight loss is generally not associated with the development of obstructive sleep apnea. In fact, weight loss can sometimes reduce the severity of OSA in overweight or obese individuals. OSA is more commonly associated with excess weight and fat deposits around the neck and throat, which can contribute to airway obstruction during sleep.
D) Enlarged tonsils:
Enlarged tonsils, especially in children, are a well-known cause of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The enlarged tonsils can block the upper airway during sleep, leading to periods of apnea or hypopnea (reduced airflow). This obstruction can result in snoring, choking, and interrupted sleep.
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.