A patient is prescribed aspirin for Coronary Artery Disease.
Which of the following should the nurse monitor?
Increased urine output.
Signs of hyponatremia.
Elevated blood glucose levels.
Signs of bleeding such as bruising or blood in stool.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Aspirin does not typically increase urine output. In fact, in large doses, it can cause renal impairment leading to decreased urine output. Aspirin is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) and can be nephrotoxic, particularly with long-term use or in high doses, but it is not a diuretic.
Choice B rationale
Aspirin does not cause hyponatremia. Hyponatremia is a low sodium level in the blood (normal range 135-145 mEq/L) and is often associated with conditions like fluid overload or the use of certain diuretics. Aspirin's primary effects are on platelet aggregation and inflammation, not electrolyte balance.
Choice C rationale
Aspirin does not cause elevated blood glucose levels. Medications that typically cause hyperglycemia include corticosteroids, some diuretics, and certain antipsychotics. Aspirin's primary mechanism of action involves inhibiting cyclooxygenase enzymes, which are not directly involved in glucose metabolism.
Choice D rationale
Aspirin is an antiplatelet medication that irreversibly inhibits cyclooxygenase-1 (COX-1), preventing the formation of thromboxane A2 and subsequent platelet aggregation. This increases the risk of bleeding. The nurse must monitor for signs of hemorrhage, such as bruising, petechiae, blood in the stool (melena), or coffee-ground emesis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Cortisol is a glucocorticoid hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. It is involved in the body's stress response, metabolism, and immune function, but is not produced by the thyroid gland, which is primarily focused on metabolic regulation.
Choice B rationale
Thyroxine, also known as T4, is the main hormone produced by the thyroid gland. It is a key regulator of metabolism, growth, and development. The thyroid also produces a smaller amount of triiodothyronine (T3), which is more potent than T4.
Choice C rationale
Insulin is a hormone produced by the beta cells of the pancreas. Its primary role is to regulate blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells for energy or storage. It is not associated with thyroid function.
Choice D rationale
Adrenaline, or epinephrine, is a hormone produced by the adrenal medulla. It is a crucial part of the "fight or flight" response, increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and glucose release from stores, and is unrelated to the thyroid gland.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Benzodiazepines are central nervous system depressants that enhance the effect of the neurotransmitter GABA. Alcohol is also a central nervous system depressant. Combining these substances can lead to a dangerous synergistic effect, resulting in profound sedation, respiratory depression, and potentially fatal overdose. Therefore, patients must be explicitly advised to avoid alcohol.
Choice B rationale
Benzodiazepines act by enhancing the effects of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. This action leads to a generalized decrease in neuronal excitability, which is responsible for their anxiolytic, sedative, and hypnotic effects. As a result, common side effects include drowsiness and dizziness, which can impair a patient's ability to drive or operate machinery.
Choice C rationale
Benzodiazepine absorption is generally not significantly affected by food. While some medications may have improved absorption with meals, benzodiazepines do not require this. Taking the medication with or without food does not substantially alter its bioavailability or efficacy, so this instruction is not a necessary part of patient education regarding this drug class.
Choice D rationale
Abrupt discontinuation of benzodiazepines can lead to withdrawal symptoms, which can be severe and potentially life-threatening. These symptoms may include rebound anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and psychosis. The body adapts to the presence of the drug, and sudden removal can cause a state of hyper-excitability. Therefore, the medication should always be tapered under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
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