A patient is receiving alteplase (Activase), a thrombolytic drug. The nurse monitors the patient for which of the following possible adverse effects?

A. Hypothermia: Clopidogrel is not typically associated with temperature regulation and wouldn't cause hypothermia.

B. Hypotension: While some medications can cause low blood pressure (hypotension), clopidogrel is not a common culprit.

C. Black stools: This can be a sign of upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a potential side effect of clopidogrel. Clopidogrel inhibits platelet aggregation, which can increase bleeding risk.

D. Constipation: Constipation is not a common side effect of clopidogrel.

A. Temperature of 100.8 Degrees Fahrenheit (38.2 Degrees Celsius): Fever can indicate a potential adverse reaction to the medication or may be a sign of infection, which could complicate the patient's condition. While a fever can be a sign of an infection, it's not a typical adverse effect for alteplase

B. Skin rash with urticaria: Skin rash and urticaria (hives) can indicate an allergic reaction to alteplase. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may necessitate discontinuation of the medication and administration of appropriate treatment, such as antihistamines or corticosteroids, depending on the severity of the reaction but it's less common than bleeding.

C. Wheezing with labored breathing: Wheezing and labored breathing can indicate a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis to alteplase but again, bleeding is a more prominent concern.

D. Bruising and epistaxis: Alteplase increases the risk of bleeding due to its thrombolytic activity. Bruising and epistaxis (nosebleeds) are common manifestations of bleeding associated with alteplase therapy. Monitoring for these signs helps detect potential bleeding complications early, allowing for prompt intervention to minimize further bleeding and manage the patient's condition appropriately.