A client who is taking furosemide reports experiencing leg cramps, a cough, feeling tired, and palpitations. Which action should the nurse take first?
Apply warm compresses to legs.
Monitor intake and output.
Raise the head of the bed.
Place on cardiac monitoring.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Apply warm compresses to legs:
While leg cramps can be uncomfortable, addressing them with warm compresses does not address the potential underlying issues related to the client's symptoms, especially considering the possibility of more severe conditions.
B. Monitor intake and output:
Monitoring intake and output is important in managing fluid balance, especially with diuretics like furosemide. However, this action does not directly address the immediate concerns raised by symptoms like palpitations and a cough.
C. Raise the head of the bed:
Raising the head of the bed can be helpful if the client is experiencing shortness of breath or orthopnea. However, it does not address the need to evaluate cardiac function, which is crucial given the presence of palpitations and other symptoms.
D. Place on cardiac monitoring:
The client's symptoms—palpitations, cough, fatigue—could indicate significant electrolyte imbalances or cardiac issues, which are common with furosemide use. Cardiac monitoring is the most appropriate initial action to quickly identify and address any cardiac complications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. The inhaler will be used before bed each night:
The timing of inhaler use depends on the type of medication (e.g., rescue vs. maintenance) and individual needs, not a fixed schedule like before bed. Proper use instructions usually specify whether it’s for acute symptoms or regular daily use.
B. Rinsing the mouth with water should be done after each use:
This is an important practice for inhaled corticosteroids to help prevent oral thrush and minimize side effects. It ensures that any residual medication is removed from the mouth.
C. Caffeinated beverages should be limited to two cups per day:
While caffeine may have interactions with certain medications, it is not specifically related to the use of inhalers. Therefore, this statement is less relevant to the immediate use of the inhaler.
D. To mask the taste of the medication, inhaler can be used during meals:
Using an inhaler during meals is not advised. It is important to use the inhaler as directed, typically separate from meals, to ensure proper inhalation and effectiveness of the medication.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Adding the herb can decrease the need for corticosteroids: There is no substantial evidence that St. John’s Wort affects the need for corticosteroids. Its primary interactions are with medications metabolized by the liver, particularly cyclosporine, rather than affecting corticosteroid requirements directly.
B) Ingestion of St. John's Wort can reduce the client's intake of sodium: St. John’s Wort does not impact sodium intake. Its known interactions are with drugs, particularly those metabolized by the liver, rather than affecting dietary intake or sodium levels.
C) St. John's Wort can decrease plasma concentrations of cyclosporine: St. John’s Wort is a potent inducer of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which can lead to decreased plasma levels of cyclosporine, an immunosuppressant crucial for preventing graft rejection. This interaction can result in subtherapeutic levels of cyclosporine and increase the risk of graft rejection.
D) The client probably used this herb to treat depression: While it is true that St. John’s Wort is commonly used for its antidepressant effects, this is not the most significant concern in the context of a renal transplant. The primary issue is its interaction with cyclosporine, which can significantly impact transplant outcomes.
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.
