A client with chronic lower back pain has been taking ibuprofen PO twice a day for several months. Which assessment is most important for the nurse to complete?
Determine presence of abdominal pain.
Palpate volume of pedal pulses.
Assess back pain using numeric scale.
Evaluate ongoing sleep patterns.
The Correct Answer is A
A. Determine presence of abdominal pain: Chronic use of ibuprofen, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as ulcers or bleeding. Abdominal pain is a critical symptom that can indicate these serious side effects. Therefore, assessing for abdominal pain is the most important action to identify potential adverse effects related to prolonged NSAID use.
B. Palpate volume of pedal pulses: While assessing pedal pulses is important for evaluating circulation and potential peripheral vascular issues, it is not the primary concern related to the long-term use of ibuprofen. This assessment does not directly address the potential gastrointestinal complications of NSAID use.
C. Assess back pain using numeric scale: Although it is important to monitor the effectiveness of ibuprofen in managing back pain, this assessment does not address the potential side effects of prolonged use. Evaluating pain levels is useful for treatment efficacy but is secondary to monitoring for adverse effects.
D. Evaluate ongoing sleep patterns: While sleep patterns can be affected by pain or medication, they are not the most immediate concern regarding the side effects of long-term ibuprofen use. The potential gastrointestinal issues related to NSAID use take precedence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Body mass index (BMI):
Monitoring BMI is crucial for assessing the effectiveness of orlistat, as it is a medication specifically used to assist with weight management. Changes in BMI will provide a clear indication of how well the medication is working in helping the client lose or maintain weight.
B. Daily calorie count:
While tracking daily calorie intake can provide insight into the client’s adherence to dietary recommendations, it is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of orlistat. The medication's impact is better evaluated through changes in body weight and BMI rather than daily calorie consumption alone.
C. Depression screening:
Although managing weight can impact mental health, depression screening is not directly related to assessing the effectiveness of orlistat. The primary focus should be on evaluating weight changes and BMI, not mental health assessments.
D. Serum protein levels:
Orlistat can affect the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins, but monitoring serum protein levels is not a direct measure of the medication’s effectiveness. Instead, changes in body weight and BMI are more relevant for evaluating the impact of orlistat on weight management
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis is a common condition for which diclofenac is often prescribed. While it is important to monitor the effectiveness of the medication in treating osteoarthritis symptoms, the presence of this condition itself does not pose the greatest concern for the potential side effects or interactions of diclofenac.
B. Chronic alcoholism: Chronic alcoholism is of significant concern when a client is prescribed diclofenac. NSAIDs, including diclofenac, can irritate the gastrointestinal tract and increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers, a risk that is heightened in individuals with a history of chronic alcoholism. This history makes monitoring for gastrointestinal side effects crucial, as chronic alcohol use can exacerbate these risks.
C. Type 2 diabetes mellitus: While diabetes mellitus can influence overall health and complicate the management of chronic conditions, it is not the most pressing concern related to the use of diclofenac. Diabetes management primarily involves monitoring blood glucose levels and managing diabetes-related complications, rather than the direct side effects of NSAIDs.
D. Migraine headaches: Migraine headaches are not directly related to the side effects or risks associated with diclofenac use. Although NSAIDs can be used to treat migraines, the presence of migraine headaches does not pose as significant a concern regarding the medication’s potential adverse effects as does a history of chronic alcoholism.
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