A client is receiving orlistat as part of a weight management program. Which ongoing assessment should be included in the plan of care to determine the effectiveness of the medication?
Depression screening.
Body mass index.
Daily calorie count.
Serum protein levels.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Depression screening is not directly related to the effectiveness of orlistat, which is a medication that blocks the absorption of fat from the diet and helps to reduce weight. Depression screening may be important for the overall mental health of the client, but it is not an ongoing assessment for orlistat.
Choice B reason: Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fat based on height and weight, and it is used to assess the risk of obesity-related health problems. BMI is an ongoing assessment for orlistat, because it can indicate the progress and outcome of the weight management program. The goal of orlistat therapy is to achieve and maintain a healthy BMI.
Choice C reason: Daily calorie count is not an ongoing assessment for orlistat, because it does not reflect the amount of fat absorbed by the body. Orlistat works by blocking the action of lipase, an enzyme that breaks down fat in the intestine. Therefore, even if the client consumes a high-calorie diet, orlistat can prevent some of the fat from being absorbed and reduce weight. However, daily calorie count may be useful for monitoring the overall nutritional intake and energy balance of the client.
Choice D reason: Serum protein levels are not an ongoing assessment for orlistat, because they are not affected by the medication. Orlistat only blocks the absorption of fat, not protein or carbohydrates. Serum protein levels may be important for evaluating the nutritional status and organ function of the client, but they are not an indicator of orlistat effectiveness.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Apical pulse rate of 50 beats/minute requires nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that slows down and strengthens the heartbeat. Digoxin can cause bradycardia, which is a slow heart rate below 60 beats/minute. Bradycardia can lead to inadequate blood flow and oxygen delivery to the body. The nurse should withhold the dose of digoxin and notify the prescriber if the apical pulse rate is below 60 beats/minute.
Choice B reason: Irregular apical pulse rhythm does not require nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that treats arrhythmias, which are irregular heart rhythms. Digoxin can correct or prevent some types of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation or flutter. The nurse should monitor the apical pulse rhythm and report any changes to the prescriber, but it is not a reason to withhold the dose of digoxin.
Choice C reason: Presence of a systolic heart murmur does not require nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that improves the pumping function of the heart. A systolic heart murmur is a sound that occurs when the heart contracts and blood flows through a narrow or leaky valve. Digoxin can reduce the symptoms of heart failure, such as shortness of breath, fatigue, and edema, which may be associated with a systolic heart murmur. The nurse should document the presence and characteristics of the heart murmur, but it is not a reason to withhold the dose of digoxin.
Choice D reason: Apical pulse heard best at the pulmonic site does not require nursing intervention prior to the administration of digoxin, which is a medication that affects the electrical activity and contractility of the heart. The apical pulse is the heartbeat heard at the apex of the heart, which is located at the fifth intercostal space on the left midclavicular line. The pulmonic site is located at the second intercostal space on the left sternal border, where the sound of blood flow through the pulmonary valve can be heard. The nurse should listen to the apical pulse at the correct location, but it is not a reason to withhold the dose of digoxin.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Hard candy can be used for a dry mouth, which is a common side effect of St. John's wort.
Choice B reason: Another form of contraception is needed, because St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives and increase the risk of unplanned pregnancy. This information requires further instruction from the nurse.
Choice C reason: Insomnia may occur while taking the medication, which is another possible side effect of St. John's wort. The client should be advised to take the medication in the morning or afternoon, and avoid caffeine and alcohol.
Choice D reason: Sensitivity to the sun can develop, which is a rare but serious side effect of St. John's wort. The client should be instructed to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when exposed to sunlight.
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