The nurse is caring for a client who is taking diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAID) drug for rheumatoid arthritis. During a clinic visit, the client appears pale and reports increasing fatigue. Which of the client's serum laboratory values is most important for the nurse to review?
Glucose.
Total protein.
Sodium.
Hemoglobin.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A reason: This is not the most important laboratory value for the nurse to review. Glucose is a measure of blood sugar levels, and it may be affected by various factors, such as diet, medication, stress, or infection. However, glucose is not directly related to the use of diclofenac or the symptoms of the client. The nurse should monitor the glucose levels for any changes, but it is not the priority.
Choice B reason: This is not the most important laboratory value for the nurse to review. Total protein is a measure of the amount of protein in the blood, and it may reflect the nutritional status, liver function, or kidney function of the client. However, total protein is not directly related to the use of diclofenac or the symptoms of the client. The nurse should monitor the total protein levels for any changes, but it is not the priority.
Choice C reason: This is not the most important laboratory value for the nurse to review. Sodium is a measure of the electrolyte balance in the blood, and it may be affected by fluid intake, fluid loss, or hormonal regulation. However, sodium is not directly related to the use of diclofenac or the symptoms of the client. The nurse should monitor the sodium levels for any changes, but it is not the priority.
Choice D reason: This is the most important laboratory value for the nurse to review. Hemoglobin is a measure of the oxygen-carrying capacity of the blood, and it may indicate the presence of anemia, which is a common adverse effect of diclofenac. Diclofenac can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can lead to a decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. The client's appearance and fatigue may be signs of anemia, which can impair the tissue oxygenation and worsen the client's condition. The nurse should review the hemoglobin levels and report any abnormal findings to the healthcare provider. The nurse should also assess the client for other signs of bleeding, such as melena, hematemesis, or hematuria.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is not an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Blood pressure 100/78 mm Hg is within the normal range for an adult, and it does not indicate any adverse effect of phenytoin. The nurse should monitor the blood pressure for any changes, but it is not a priority.
Choice B reason: This is an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Double vision, or diplopia, is a sign of phenytoin toxicity, which can occur due to overdose, drug interactions, or impaired metabolism. Double vision can impair the client's vision, balance, and coordination, and increase the risk of falls and injuries. The nurse should stop the phenytoin infusion, if applicable, and notify the healthcare provider. The nurse should also check the serum phenytoin level and other vital signs, and prepare to administer an antidote, such as fosphenytoin, if indicated.
Choice C reason: This is not an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Puffy, bleeding gums are a common side effect of phenytoin, which can cause gingival hyperplasia, or overgrowth of the gum tissue. Puffy, bleeding gums are not life-threatening, but they can affect the client's oral hygiene and appearance. The nurse should instruct the client to brush and floss the teeth regularly, and to visit a dentist for dental care.
Choice D reason: This is not an assessment finding that warrants immediate intervention by the nurse. Chronic insomnia is not a common or serious side effect of phenytoin, which is an anticonvulsant that can have sedative effects. Chronic insomnia may be caused by other factors, such as stress, pain, or caffeine intake. The nurse should assess the client's sleep pattern and quality, and provide education and counseling on sleep hygiene and relaxation techniques.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Tetracycline HCl can cause photosensitivity, which increases the risk of sunburn and skin damage. The client should avoid direct sunlight and use sunscreen and protective clothing while taking the drug.
Choice B reason: Orange juice is acidic and can decrease the absorption of tetracycline HCl. The client should take the drug with water and avoid acidic foods and beverages.
Choice C reason: Serum drug levels are not routinely monitored for tetracycline HCl. The client should follow the prescribed dosage and duration of the therapy.
Choice D reason: Milk and antacids can interfere with the absorption of tetracycline HCl. The client should take the drug at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals and avoid dairy products and antacids.
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