Digoxin and furosemide were prescribed for a client with chronic heart failure, and the home health nurse is evaluating the client's self-care knowledge of these drugs. Which statement indicates that the client has a good understanding about the use of these drugs?
"I need to notify my healthcare provider if I lose my appetite or get nauseated."
"I should take my furosemide only if I have shortness of breath or swelling in my feet."
"I need to check my blood pressure three times a day."
"If I lose more than one pound in a week, I should hold my next dose of furosemide."
The Correct Answer is A
A. "I need to notify my healthcare provider if I lose my appetite or get nauseated." This statement shows understanding because loss of appetite and nausea can be symptoms of digoxin toxicity or side effects, and it is important to report these symptoms to a healthcare provider. Monitoring for such side effects is crucial when taking digoxin.
B. "I should take my furosemide only if I have shortness of breath or swelling in my feet." This statement is incorrect because furosemide, a diuretic, should be taken according to the prescribed schedule, not based on symptoms. It is used to manage fluid retention and symptoms of heart failure, and its use should not be dependent solely on the presence of symptoms.
C. "I need to check my blood pressure three times a day." While monitoring blood pressure is important, it is not specifically required for patients on digoxin and furosemide unless instructed by a healthcare provider. The focus should be more on monitoring for symptoms of drug side effects and electrolyte imbalances.
D. "If I lose more than one pound in a week, I should hold my next dose of furosemide." Weight loss can be a normal effect of furosemide due to fluid loss, and the decision to hold a dose should be based on specific medical advice and not solely on weight change.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Fingerstick glucose: While important in managing diabetes or hypoglycemia, it is not directly related to evaluating the effectiveness of lactulose in treating hepatic encephalopathy.
B. Stool color and character: Lactulose acts as a laxative, and its effectiveness can affect stool characteristics. However, stool color and character are less direct indicators of therapeutic response compared to serum ammonia levels.
C. Serum hepatic enzymes: While liver enzyme levels can provide information about liver function, they do not directly measure the effectiveness of lactulose in managing hepatic encephalopathy. Serum ammonia levels are more specific for this purpose.
D. Serum electrolytes and ammonia: Lactulose is used to treat hepatic encephalopathy by reducing blood ammonia levels. Monitoring serum ammonia levels provides direct feedback on the effectiveness of the medication in treating hepatic encephalopathy. Additionally, serum electrolytes should be monitored because lactulose can lead to electrolyte imbalances due to its laxative effect.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Warfarin: Warfarin is an oral anticoagulant used for long-term anticoagulation, but it is not used for reversing the effects of heparin. They are different classes of anticoagulants with distinct reversal agents.
B. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, not heparin.
C. Protamine sulfate: Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin overdose. It neutralizes the effects of heparin and is used to quickly reverse its anticoagulant effects in case of an overdose or excessive bleeding.
D. Diphenhydramine HCl: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine and has no role in reversing anticoagulants.
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.
