A client is currently prescribed pantoprazole, and the nurse is reviewing the client's labs (shown below). Which lab result is of most concern to the nurse?
Laboratory Test
|
Result
|
Normal Range
|
Sodium
|
146 mEq/dL
|
135-145 mEq/L
|
Calcium
|
8.2 mg/dL
|
8.4-10.2 mg/dL
|
Magnesium
|
1.2 mg/dL
|
1.6-2.2 mg/dL
|
Gastric pH
|
6
|
1-4
|
Sodium
Gastric pH
Calcium
Magnesium
The Correct Answer is D
A. Sodium: Sodium levels are important to monitor, but in the context of pantoprazole use, abnormal sodium levels are less commonly a direct concern. Pantoprazole primarily impacts the gastric environment rather than fluid or electrolyte balance in a way that would dramatically alter sodium levels.
B. Gastric pH: Pantoprazole works to increase gastric pH by reducing acid secretion, which is its primary therapeutic effect. A higher gastric pH is expected and beneficial in conditions like GERD or peptic ulcers.
C. Calcium: Pantoprazole, when used for extended periods, can interfere with calcium absorption, potentially leading to bone health issues like osteoporosis. However, changes in calcium levels typically do not pose an immediate or life-threatening concern unless significantly low or related to prolonged therapy. It is still something to monitor, but magnesium is a higher priority in this case.
D. Magnesium: Pantoprazole and other proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are known to cause hypomagnesemia, especially with prolonged use. Low magnesium levels can lead to serious complications, including muscle spasms, seizures, and arrhythmias. Hypomagnesemia is a well-documented side effect of long-term PPI use, making it the most critical lab result to address.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The client will remain free from visible bleeding, bruising, and signs of internal bleeding (tachycardia and hypotension) during this shift: This is the most appropriate outcome for the "Risk for bleeding" nursing diagnosis. Since both aspirin and warfarin are anticoagulants, they increase the client's risk of bleeding. The priority is to monitor for and prevent any signs of visible bleeding, bruising, or more serious internal bleeding, which could manifest as tachycardia or hypotension. This outcome directly addresses the client's safety by focusing on detecting and preventing bleeding complications.
B) The client will verbalize understanding of dietary restrictions while on warfarin and provide examples of foods that contain vitamin K during this shift: While this is an important goal for clients on warfarin (because vitamin K can interfere with the effectiveness of warfarin), it is not the most immediate concern in the context of the "Risk for bleeding" diagnosis. Dietary restrictions should be discussed but are not as time-sensitive or directly related to the prevention of bleeding in the short term, especially during this shift.
C) The client will state their pain level is less than 4 on a 0-10 pain scale during aspirin therapy: While managing pain is important, this outcome does not directly address the risk for bleeding associated with both aspirin and warfarin therapy. The priority nursing concern here is preventing bleeding, not pain management during aspirin therapy.
D) The client will remain free from any signs and symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT): While preventing DVT is important for patients on anticoagulant therapy, the focus of this nursing diagnosis is on the risk of bleeding, not thrombosis. Therefore, this outcome is not as relevant to the immediate concerns related to the prescribed medications (aspirin and warfarin).
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) 1 x soft bowel movement: This is the correct answer. Psyllium is a bulk-forming laxative that helps to relieve constipation by absorbing water into the stool, making it easier to pass. A therapeutic effect of psyllium would be the client experiencing a soft bowel movement, indicating the medication has helped to regulate the client's bowel movements and relieve constipation.
B) Gastric pH 2 (Normal pH: 1-4): While this is a normal gastric pH range, it is not related to the therapeutic effect of psyllium. Psyllium works in the gastrointestinal tract to promote bowel regularity, not to alter gastric pH. The pH measurement of gastric contents is not a relevant indicator of the medication's effectiveness.
C) 500 ml of urine output: This finding is not related to the therapeutic effect of psyllium. Psyllium is intended to address bowel function, not urine output. Adequate urine output should be monitored, but it is not the expected outcome for a patient taking psyllium.
D) Blood glucose: 95 (Normal Fasting Blood Glucose: 60-120): While a normal blood glucose level is important, it is not relevant to the action of psyllium. Psyllium does not have a direct effect on blood glucose levels, so a normal blood glucose result is not indicative of a therapeutic effect of the medication.
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.