Prior to administering oral doses of calcitriol and calcium carbonate to a client with hypoparathyroidism, the nurse notes that the total level of calcium is 14 mg/dL (3.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse implement?
Administer both prescribed medications as scheduled.
Hold the calcitriol but administer the calcium carbonate as scheduled.
Hold the calcium carbonate but administer the calcitriol as scheduled.
Hold both medications until contacting the healthcare provider.
The Correct Answer is D
A total calcium level of 14 mg/dL (3.5 mmol/L) is higher than the normal range of 2.2 to 2.6 millimoles per liter (mmol/L)1. Calcitriol and calcium carbonate are both medications used to increase calcium levels in the blood2. Since the client’s calcium level is already high, it would be important for the nurse to hold both medications and contact the healthcare provider for further instructions.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Atorvastatin is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. One of its side effects is muscle damage, which can result in an increase in serum creatine phosphokinase (CK) levels. Creatine phosphokinase is an enzyme found in muscles, and when muscles are damaged, CK is released into the bloodstream. Therefore, an increased serum CK level indicates muscle damage, and the nurse should assess the client for muscle tenderness or weakness, which are symptoms of this side effect. Nausea and vomiting, excessive bruising, and peripheral edema are not typically associated with atorvastatin use.

Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart failure by strengthening the heart's contractions and slowing down the heart rate. However, it can also cause nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite, especially when levels in the body are too high. Furosemide is a diuretic medication that helps to remove excess fluid from the body, which is often necessary in heart failure. However, it can also cause electrolyte imbalances, such as low potassium levels, which can contribute to nausea and vomiting.
Therefore, in a client with heart failure who is experiencing these symptoms, it is important to assess their medication regimen, including dosages and serum levels, to ensure that they are not experiencing medication side effects or toxicity.
Adjustments may need to be made to the client's medication regimen to manage symptoms effectively and prevent further complications. Options (a), (b), and (d) do not have as direct a correlation to the current symptoms and would not have the same level of significance when planning care for this client.

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