A nurse is teaching a client who reports taking gingko biloba to improve his memory. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse include in the teaching?
Bleeding gums
Decreased alertness
Breast enlargement
Bad breath
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Bleeding gums is a possible adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it may increase the risk of bleeding by inhibiting platelet aggregation and interfering with clotting factors. Gingko biloba may also interact with other medications that affect bleeding, such as anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or NSAIDs. The nurse should advise the client to monitor for signs of bleeding, such as bruising, nosebleeds, or hematuria, and report them to the provider.
Choice B reason: Decreased alertness is not a likely adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it may have the opposite effect of enhancing cognitive function and memory. Gingko biloba may improve blood flow to the brain and protect against oxidative stress and neuronal damage. The nurse should inform the client that gingko biloba may take several weeks to show its benefits and that the evidence for its effectiveness is inconclusive.
Choice C reason: Breast enlargement is not a known adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it does not affect the hormonal levels or the breast tissue. Gingko biloba may have some estrogenic activity, but it is not significant enough to cause gynecomastia or breast tenderness. The nurse should assess the client for other possible causes of breast enlargement, such as medications, liver disease, or tumors.
Choice D reason: Bad breath is not a common adverse effect of taking gingko biloba, as it does not affect the oral hygiene or the digestive system. Gingko biloba may have a mild odor, but it is not unpleasant or persistent. The nurse should advise the client to maintain good oral care and to check for other possible causes of bad breath, such as infections, dental problems, or dietary factors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using an electric razor while on warfarin is the correct instruction. Warfarin is an anticoagulant that inhibits the formation of blood clots and prolongs the bleeding time. Using an electric razor can reduce the risk of cuts and bleeding while shaving. The client should avoid using sharp objects or instruments that can cause injury or trauma.
Choice B reason: Doubling the dose of warfarin if a dose is missed is not the correct instruction. This is a dangerous and potentially fatal advice, as it can cause overdose and severe bleeding. The client should take the missed dose as soon as possible, unless it is close to the next scheduled dose, in which case the client should skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. The client should never take extra doses or change the dose without consulting the provider.
Choice C reason: Mild nosebleeds being common during initial treatment is not the correct instruction. This is a false and misleading statement, as nosebleeds are not a normal or expected side effect of warfarin therapy. Nosebleeds can indicate bleeding problems or complications, such as thrombocytopenia, which is a low platelet count. The client should report any nosebleeds or other signs of bleeding, such as bruising, petechiae, hematuria, or melena, to the provider immediately.
Choice D reason: Increasing fiber intake to reduce the adverse effect of constipation is not the correct instruction. This is an irrelevant and unnecessary recommendation, as constipation is not a common or serious adverse effect of warfarin therapy. Constipation can be caused by many factors, such as diet, hydration, activity, or medication. The client should maintain a balanced and consistent diet, drink plenty of fluids, and exercise regularly to prevent constipation. The client should also avoid foods that are high in vitamin K, such as green leafy vegetables, as they can interfere with the effect of warfarin.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Grapefruit juice should be avoided while taking verapamil, as it can increase the blood levels of the medication and cause adverse effects such as hypotension, bradycardia, and dizziness. Grapefruit juice inhibits the enzyme that metabolizes verapamil in the liver, leading to higher concentrations of the drug in the bloodstream.
Choice B reason: Orange juice is not a contraindication for verapamil, as it does not affect the metabolism or absorption of the medication. Orange juice is a good source of vitamin C and potassium, which may benefit clients with hypertension.
Choice C reason: Milk is not a contraindication for verapamil, as it does not affect the metabolism or absorption of the medication. Milk is a good source of calcium and protein, which may benefit clients with hypertension.
Choice D reason: Coffee is not a contraindication for verapamil, as it does not affect the metabolism or absorption of the medication. However, coffee contains caffeine, which is a stimulant that can increase the heart rate and blood pressure. Therefore, clients with hypertension should limit their intake of caffeine and other stimulants.
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