The nurse is assessing a post-operative client and notices that the client's urine is brown and they are experiencing muscle rigidity. The vital signs are T: 102.5 F; HR: 112; RR: 20 and BP 124/84. What is the most appropriate nursing action?
Give the ordered dose of dantrolene.
Call the physician for an order for metoprolol.
Increase the rate of lactated Ringer's.
Ask the physician to order liver function tests.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A Reason:
Dantrolene is used in the management of malignant hyperthermia, a life-threatening complication characterized by muscle rigidity and elevated temperature, often triggered by certain anesthetics. The patient's symptoms of muscle rigidity and brown urine, which may indicate myoglobinuria, along with elevated temperature and heart rate, are suggestive of this condition. Dantrolene acts by reducing calcium release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum of skeletal muscle, thereby reducing muscle contraction and metabolic demand.
Choice B Reason:
Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, is not the first-line treatment for symptoms suggestive of malignant hyperthermia. While it can reduce heart rate and blood pressure, it does not address the underlying pathophysiology of malignant hyperthermia and is not indicated in this scenario.
Choice C Reason:
Increasing the rate of lactated Ringer's solution is not the primary intervention for malignant hyperthermia. While maintaining hydration is important, it does not directly counteract the pathophysiological processes at play in malignant hyperthermia.
Choice D Reason:
While liver function tests can be important in assessing overall organ function post-operatively, they are not the immediate priority in a suspected case of malignant hyperthermia. The priority is to treat the acute and life-threatening symptoms first.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, and communication difficulties. Jaw clenching and rocking are forms of self-stimulatory behavior (stimming) often observed in individuals with ASD¹³¹⁴. These behaviors can serve as a coping mechanism to manage sensory overload or express emotions.
Choice B Reason:
Stereotypic Movement Disorder involves repetitive, seemingly purposeless movements. While jaw clenching and rocking could be symptoms, they are more commonly associated with ASD. Stereotypic Movement Disorder is typically diagnosed when these behaviors interfere significantly with normal activities or result in self-harm, which is not mentioned in the child's description.
Choice C Reason:
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is marked by an ongoing pattern of inattention and/or hyperactivity-impulsivity that interferes with functioning or development. The behaviors described, jaw clenching and rocking, are not typical indicators of ADHD, which more commonly includes symptoms like difficulty staying focused, hyperactivity, and impulsive actions.
Choice D Reason:
Intellectual Disability Disorder is characterized by limitations in intellectual functioning and adaptive behavior, which covers a range of everyday social and practical skills. The behaviors of jaw clenching and rocking do not directly indicate Intellectual Disability Disorder. This condition is usually identified by deficits in intellectual and adaptive functioning, not by specific behaviors like those described.
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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