The nurse is administering Furosemide 40 mg PO to a client with peripheral edema. Which method should the nurse use to best evaluate the client's response to this medication?
Monitor serum sodium levels
Auscultate breath sounds
Perform daily weights
Take the blood pressure
The Correct Answer is C
A. Monitor serum sodium levels: While serum sodium levels can provide some information about fluid balance, they are not the most direct indicator of the effectiveness of furosemide
in reducing peripheral edema.
B. Auscultate breath sounds: This is important for monitoring potential fluid overload or pulmonary complications, but it does not directly assess the reduction of peripheral edema, which is the primary concern with furosemide administration.
C. Perform daily weights: This method is the best way to evaluate the client's response to furosemide. Daily weights can provide a clear indication of fluid status and changes in peripheral edema, as a decrease in weight typically reflects effective diuresis.
D. Take the blood pressure: While monitoring blood pressure is important, especially in clients receiving diuretics, it does not specifically measure the effectiveness of the medication in addressing peripheral edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) "I usually wait about two hours after I feel chest discomfort to seek medical attention.": This statement is particularly concerning as it suggests a dangerous delay in seeking help during a potentially critical situation. Waiting to seek medical attention for chest discomfort can indicate a lack of understanding of the seriousness of the symptoms, which may hinder effective adaptation to the illness and could result in severe health risks.
B) "I know that I should carry my medication with me in case I develop chest pain.": This statement shows that the client is aware of the importance of having their medication accessible during a potential cardiac event. It indicates a level of preparedness and understanding of their condition, suggesting that the client is adapting well to managing their illness.
C) "My wife and I will learn to cook using the 'good' cooking methods.": This statement reflects a proactive approach to lifestyle modifications, indicating that the client is willing to make dietary changes to improve their health. Such positive steps are a sign of adapting effectively to coronary artery disease.
D) "I feel a little anxious when I get chest discomfort.": While anxiety is a natural response to experiencing chest discomfort, this statement alone does not indicate an inability to adapt. Acknowledging feelings of anxiety can be part of a healthy coping mechanism as the client learns to manage their condition.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A) Total cholesterol 198 mg/dL: While this value is within normal limits, it does not specifically indicate the effectiveness of atorvastatin treatment, which primarily aims to lower LDL levels. An optimal outcome would focus more on the LDL reduction rather than total cholesterol alone.
B) Low density lipoprotein (LDL) 90 mg/dL: This finding indicates an expected outcome of atorvastatin therapy. Atorvastatin is effective at lowering LDL cholesterol, which is a key target in managing hyperlipidemia and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events. An LDL level below 100 mg/dL is generally considered optimal.
C) Serum albumin 6 g/L: This value is low and indicates potential malnutrition or liver dysfunction, which are not expected outcomes for a client on atorvastatin. A normal serum albumin level typically ranges from 3.5 to 5.0 g/dL, so this finding is concerning.
D) Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) 25 units/L: While this ALT level is within the normal range, it does not directly reflect the primary goal of atorvastatin therapy, which is to lower LDL cholesterol. Monitoring liver enzymes is important, but the expected outcome would be more clearly indicated by improved lipid profiles, particularly LDL levels.
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.
