The nurse is caring for an older adult who reports severe chronic pain. To best assess age- related physiologic changes that could influence plans for initiating an appropriate drug regimen, the nurse prepares the patient for which laboratory evaluation?

Serum complement level

Glomerular filtration rate

White blood count

Electroencephalogram

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

A.   Serum complement levels are used to evaluate the complement system, which is part of the immune system and plays a role in inflammation and infection. While complement levels can be important in certain inflammatory and autoimmune conditions, they are not typically used to assess age-related changes that impact drug metabolism or the appropriate selection of pain medications.
B.   The Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) is a key measure of kidney function. In older adults, kidney function often declines with age, affecting the metabolism and excretion of medications. Many drugs are primarily eliminated through the kidneys, and impaired kidney function can lead to drug accumulation, increased risk of toxicity, and altered therapeutic efficacy. Assessing GFR helps in adjusting medication doses to avoid adverse effects and ensure safe and effective treatment.
C.   A White Blood Count (WBC) measures the number of white blood cells in the blood and is used to assess the body's response to infection, inflammation, and other conditions. While it provides valuable information about immune function and potential infections, it does not directly address age-related changes in drug metabolism or pharmacokinetics. Therefore, it is not the primary test for evaluating how aging might affect drug therapy.
D.   An Electroencephalogram (EEG) records the electrical activity of the brain and is used to diagnose neurological conditions such as seizures, sleep disorders, and brain abnormalities. Although EEGs are valuable in certain neurological assessments, they do not provide information on how age-related physiological changes affect drug metabolism or how to tailor drug regimens for older adults.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. This question is specific to a potential complication of diabetes, but it does not directly assess the patient's understanding of their current health problems or the importance of self-monitoring blood glucose levels.
B. This question is about a specific laboratory result, but it does not assess the patient's understanding of the importance of self-monitoring blood glucose levels.
C. This question assesses the patient's understanding of the importance of self-monitoring blood glucose levels, which is crucial for managing diabetes. By understanding the reasons behind this intervention, the patient is more likely to comply with the treatment plan and make informed decisions about their health.
D. This question is about the logistics of medication management, but it does not assess the patient's understanding of their current health problems or the importance of self-monitoring blood glucose levels.

A. reflex tone B. body for bruising C. serum creatinine level D. prothrombin time

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Reflex tone refers to the neurological response of the body to stimuli and is not directly related to the action or monitoring of anticoagulant therapy. While assessing reflexes might be important for overall patient health, it is not specifically relevant to monitoring the effects of warfarin. Reflex tone does not provide information on the anticoagulation status or risk of bleeding associated with warfarin therapy.
B. Checking the body for bruising helps assess the safety of warfarin therapy and may indicate the need for dosage adjustments or further investigation if bruising is excessive. However, while monitoring for bruising is essential, it is not the primary method for assessing the effectiveness and safety of anticoagulant therapy.
C. While monitoring kidney function is relevant for overall medication management, it is not the primary focus for directly assessing the effectiveness or safety of warfarin therapy. Kidney function is more related to adjusting doses and avoiding potential complications.
D. Regularly reviewing PT is crucial for managing warfarin therapy because it directly reflects the anticoagulation effect of the medication. The International Normalized Ratio (INR), derived from PT, is used to ensure the patient is within the therapeutic range for effective anticoagulation while minimizing the risk of bleeding.

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The nurse is caring for an older adult who reports severe chronic pain. To best assess age- related physiologic changes that could influence plans for initiating an appropriate drug regimen, the nurse prepares the patient for which laboratory evaluation?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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