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 C
Explanation
A) Takes concurrent iron therapy without adverse effects: While taking concurrent iron therapy without adverse effects is beneficial, it does not directly indicate the effectiveness of epoetin alfa. Epoetin alfa stimulates erythropoiesis, and its effectiveness is best measured by improvements in hemoglobin levels, not just the tolerance of iron supplementation.
B) Reports of increased energy levels and decreased fatigue: Reports of increased energy levels and decreased fatigue are positive signs but are subjective and not specific indicators of epoetin alfa's effectiveness. The most reliable measure of the medication's impact is the objective increase in hemoglobin levels.
C) Hemoglobin level increased to 12 g/dL (7.45 mmol/L): An increase in hemoglobin level to 12 g/dL is a direct and objective indicator that epoetin alfa is effective. This medication is designed to raise hemoglobin levels, so seeing a rise to within the reference range signifies that the treatment is working as intended.
D) Food diary shows increased consumption of iron-rich foods: Increased consumption of iron-rich foods is beneficial for supporting erythropoiesis but does not directly measure the effectiveness of epoetin alfa. The primary measure of the medication's success is the increase in hemoglobin levels, rather than dietary changes alone
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Measure the client's blood pressure: This is the most appropriate action to assess the effectiveness of amlodipine. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker primarily used to manage hypertension and angina. Measuring blood pressure will help determine if the medication is effectively lowering the client's blood pressure as intended.
B. Note the client's serum calcium levels: While amlodipine affects calcium channels, its effectiveness is not typically assessed by monitoring serum calcium levels. The primary goal of amlodipine therapy is to manage blood pressure and angina, not to alter serum calcium levels.
C. Monitor the client's serum electrolytes: Monitoring serum electrolytes is important for various conditions and medications, but it is not the primary method to evaluate the effectiveness of amlodipine. Amlodipine’s main action and efficacy are assessed through blood pressure control.
D. Review the client's intake and output: While intake and output are important for overall fluid balance and kidney function, they do not directly measure the effectiveness of amlodipine. The primary assessment for this medication’s effectiveness is through monitoring blood pressure.
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