For a client diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease who has been taking aspirin 81 mg daily prophylactically for several months, which assessment finding is of most concern?

Hemoglobin is 7.1 g/dL on today's laboratory report.

There are small areas of ecchymosis on the client's upper extremities.

Platelet count is 148,000/uL on today's laboratory report.

The client complains of gastrointestinal discomfort after taking the medication.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

Choice A Reason
A hemoglobin level of 7.1 g/dL is significantly lower than the normal range, which is typically around 13.8 to 17.2 g/dL for men and 12.1 to 15.1 g/dL for women. This finding is concerning as it indicates severe anemia, which can be a life-threatening condition requiring immediate intervention. Anemia can lead to tissue hypoxia as the blood's capacity to carry oxygen is diminished. In the context of peripheral arterial disease, where blood flow is already compromised, anemia can exacerbate symptoms and increase the risk of ischemic events.

Choice B Reason
Ecchymosis, or bruising, on the client's upper extremities could be a result of the antiplatelet effects of aspirin, which inhibits platelet aggregation and prolongs bleeding time. While this is a concern and warrants monitoring, it is not as immediately life-threatening as severe anemia. However, it does indicate a risk of bleeding complications, which should be addressed by the healthcare provider.

Choice C Reason
A platelet count of 148,000/uL is at the lower end of the normal range, which is approximately 150,000 to 450,000 platelets per microliter of blood. This finding should be monitored, especially in the context of aspirin therapy, which can affect platelet function. However, it is not as critical as the low hemoglobin level.

Choice D Reason
Gastrointestinal discomfort is a common side effect of aspirin due to its irritation of the stomach lining. While this symptom can be uncomfortable and may lead to more serious gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or bleeding, it is typically not as urgent as severe anemia. The client should be evaluated for potential gastrointestinal complications of aspirin therapy.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A Reason
Monitoring for hypoglycemia at 1200 is not optimal because it is well past the peak action time of insulin aspart, which occurs approximately 45–90 minutes after administration. By noon, the insulin's effects are waning, and the risk of hypoglycemia is lower compared to the peak action period.

Choice B Reason
Monitoring at 1000 might still catch the tail end of the peak action time, but it is not the most likely time for hypoglycemia to occur. The nurse could miss the initial signs of hypoglycemia if monitoring starts two hours after administration.

Choice C Reason
0900 is the most appropriate time for the nurse to monitor for hypoglycemia. Insulin aspart has a rapid onset of action, peaking in about 45–90 minutes, and the effects last for 3–5 hours. Monitoring one hour after administration aligns with the start of the peak action time, when hypoglycemia is most likely to occur.

Choice D Reason
Monitoring at 1100 is less ideal because it is nearing the end of the peak action period. While there is still a risk for hypoglycemia, the highest risk would have been earlier, closer to the peak action time.

A. "I cannot stop taking my medication abruptly." B. "This medication is safe with herbal supplements." C. "I have to avoid aged cheese." D. "I can take extra doses as needed for anxiety."

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A reason:
Duloxetine is a medication that should not be stopped abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Gradual tapering is recommended to minimize these symptoms. This understanding by the client indicates effective medication teaching.

Choice B reason:
The statement about the medication being safe with herbal supplements is incorrect. Patients should consult their healthcare provider before using herbal supplements with duloxetine, as there can be interactions.

Choice C reason:
The need to avoid aged cheese is associated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), not duloxetine, which is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This statement does not reflect accurate medication teaching for duloxetine.

Choice D reason:
Taking extra doses for anxiety without consulting a healthcare provider is not recommended. Duloxetine dosing should be consistent and as prescribed by a healthcare provider. This statement suggests a misunderstanding of medication management.

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For a client diagnosed with peripheral arterial disease who has been taking aspirin 81 mg daily prophylactically for several months, which assessment finding is of most concern?

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