A patient is receiving alteplase (Activase), a thrombolytic drug. The nurse monitors the patient for which of the following possible adverse effects?
Temperature of 100.8 Degrees Fahrenheit (38.2 Degrees Celsius)
Skin rash with urticaria
Wheezing with labored breathing
Bruising and epistaxis
The Correct Answer is D
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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
A. Alteplase (Activase): Alteplase is a thrombolytic agent used to dissolve blood clots. Concurrent use with clopidogrel, an antiplatelet medication, can increase the risk of bleeding due to additive effects on clotting. Therefore, it's important to consult the doctor before using these medications together.
B. Diltiazem: Diltiazem is a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and certain heart rhythm disorders. Diltiazem will decrease the level or effect of clopidogrel by affecting hepatic/intestinal enzyme CYP3A4 metabolism. Therefore, it's advisable to consult the doctor before using these medications together.
C. Ibuprofen: Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain and inflammation. Like other NSAIDs, it can increase the risk of bleeding when taken with clopidogrel. Therefore, it's important to consult the doctor before using these medications together.
D. Aspirin: Aspirin is another antiplatelet medication commonly used to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Combining clopidogrel with aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding without significantly improving outcomes in most cases. However, in some situations, such as after certain cardiac procedures, dual antiplatelet therapy (clopidogrel plus aspirin) may be prescribed under close medical supervision. Therefore, it's crucial to consult the doctor before using these medications together.
E. Coumadin (warfarin): Coumadin is an anticoagulant medication used to prevent blood clots. Concurrent use with clopidogrel can increase the risk of bleeding. Therefore, it's essential to consult the doctor before using these medications together.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. LMWHs produce a more stable effect on coagulation; thus, fewer lab tests are needed: Correct LMWHs have a more predictable anticoagulant response compared to unfractionated heparin, resulting in a more stable effect on coagulation. Because of their predictable response, routine monitoring of coagulation parameters, such as activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), is typically not required with LMWH therapy, unlike with unfractionated heparin.
B. LMWHs may be given by the oral route: Incorrect. LMWHs are administered by the subcutaneous route.
C. LMWHs have a short duration of action: Incorrect. LMWHs have a longer duration of action compared to unfractionated heparin.
D. LMWHs possess greater anticoagulant activity: incorrect. LMWHs generally have less potent anticoagulant activity compared to unfractionated heparin, but their more predictable response and longer half-life make them advantageous in many clinical scenario
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