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
Metoclopramide is a medication used to treat nausea and vomiting, including those caused by chemotherapy. However, it has a potential adverse effect of causing extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS), which are involuntary movements of the body, such as muscle spasms, twitching, or restlessness. These symptoms can be distressing for patients and can interfere with their quality of life. EPS can be a sign of tardive dyskinesia, a serious and irreversible neurological disorder.
Therefore, it is essential for the nurse to monitor the client for any signs of EPS and report them immediately to the healthcare provider to prevent further complications. Unusual irritability, diarrhea, and nausea are also potential adverse effects of metoclopramide, but they are not as concerning as EPS.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Sumatriptan succinate is a medication used to treat migraine headaches by narrowing blood vessels in the brain. It is important to determine if the client has a history of coronary artery disease before administering the initial dose because the medication can also cause narrowing of the coronary arteries and potentially lead to a heart attack or other cardiac events.
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (a), seasonal allergic rhinitis (c), and irritable bowel syndrome (d) are not directly related to the use of sumatriptan succinate. However, it is still important to consider the client's medical history and overall health status when prescribing or administering any medication.
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