In checking the dose of intravenous ticarcillin disodium prescribed for an older client, the nurse notes that the 24 hour dosage is lower than the normal range. Which finding supports the need for this reduced dosage?
Reference range
Creatinine [0.6 to 1.2 mg/dL (53 to 106 μmol/L)]
White blood cells (WBC) [5,000 to 10,000/mm3 (5 to 10 x 109/L)]
White blood cell count of 8,000/mm3 (8 X 109/L).
Inelastic skin turgor.
Serum creatinine of 3.5 mg/dL (310 μmol/L).
Thin, fragile hand and arm veins.
The Correct Answer is C
A. A white blood cell count of 8,000/mm³ is within the normal range and does not indicate a need for dosage adjustment.
B. Inelastic skin turgor may indicate dehydration or aging but does not directly affect drug dosage.
C. Elevated serum creatinine levels indicate impaired renal function, which necessitates a reduced dosage of medications excreted through the kidneys, such as ticarcillin disodium.
D. Thin, fragile veins are a concern for intravenous access but do not affect the medication dosage.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Hypertension is not a common side effect of phenytoin. It is not typically associated with the medication.
B. Peripheral edema is not commonly linked to phenytoin use.
C. Gingival hyperplasia, or overgrowth of the gums, is a common side effect of phenytoin, particularly with long-term use.
D. Hematuria is not a typical side effect of phenytoin and may indicate a different medical issue.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Urinary output is important but not as critical as identifying the potential source of infection.
B. A 24-hour medication history is useful but secondary to identifying an acute infection.
C. The amount of serous drainage provides information on wound healing but does not confirm infection.
D. Increased confusion in an older adult, especially with a wound present, raises concern for infection, possibly sepsis. A WBC count can help identify infection and guide further treatment.
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