Which of the following is a characteristic of a chemical reaction?

Choice A reason: Palpitations may indicate electrolyte imbalances, like hypokalemia, a serious side effect of hydrochlorothiazide, a thiazide diuretic. It increases potassium excretion, disrupting cardiac electrical activity, potentially causing arrhythmias. Withholding the dose and notifying the provider is critical to prevent life-threatening cardiac complications, requiring urgent electrolyte assessment.

Choice B reason: Nervousness is a vague symptom not typically linked to hydrochlorothiazide’s side effects. It may reflect anxiety or other unrelated issues, not necessitating immediate drug cessation. Electrolyte imbalances or hypotension are more concerning, making this choice less urgent for withholding the medication.

Choice C reason: Nausea is a common, non-specific side effect of many medications, including hydrochlorothiazide, but is not severe enough to warrant withholding the dose. It may resolve or be managed symptomatically. More critical side effects, like electrolyte imbalances, take precedence, making this choice incorrect.

Choice D reason: Anorexia is not a primary concern with hydrochlorothiazide. While it may occur with diuretic-induced dehydration, it is less urgent than cardiac symptoms like palpitations. This symptom does not directly indicate a life-threatening side effect, so withholding the drug is not immediately necessary.

Choice A reason: Recording blood pressures is relevant, as diazepam may cause hypotension, but it is less critical than respiratory monitoring. Status epilepticus requires rapid seizure control, and diazepam’s respiratory depression risk is more immediate, as it can lead to life-threatening hypoxia if not addressed promptly.

Choice B reason: Measuring urinary output monitors renal function but is not urgent in status epilepticus. Diazepam’s primary risk is respiratory depression, not renal effects. Ensuring airway and breathing stability is more critical, as seizures and the drug both threaten respiratory function, making this choice secondary.

Choice C reason: Monitoring respiratory rate and effort is critical, as diazepam, a CNS depressant, can cause respiratory depression, especially in status epilepticus, where seizures already compromise breathing. Hypoventilation risks hypoxia, potentially leading to brain damage or death, making this the most urgent intervention to ensure airway safety.

Choice D reason: Observing eye deviation may indicate ongoing seizures but is less urgent than respiratory monitoring. Diazepam controls seizures, but its side effect of respiratory depression poses an immediate threat. Ensuring adequate ventilation is the priority to prevent hypoxia during acute seizure management.