A male client reports to the nurse that he is experiencing gastrointestinal (GI) distress from a high dose of a corticosteroid and is planning to stop taking the medication. In response to the client's statement, which nursing action is most important for the nurse to Implement?
Assess the client for other indications of adverse effects of corticosteroid use.
Advise the client that the medication should be stopped gradually rather than abruptly.
Encourage the client to take the medication with food to decrease Gl distress.
Review the client's dosing schedule to ensure he is taking the prescribed amount.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Assess the client for other indications of adverse effects of corticosteroid use: While important, this action does not address the immediate issue of stopping the medication safely.
B. Advise the client that the medication should be stopped gradually rather than abruptly: Corticosteroids should not be stopped suddenly due to the risk of adrenal insufficiency and withdrawal symptoms. Gradual tapering is necessary to safely discontinue the medication.
C. Encourage the client to take the medication with food to decrease GI distress: This can help manage GI symptoms but does not address the issue of safely discontinuing the medication.
D. Review the client's dosing schedule to ensure he is taking the prescribed amount: This is useful but does not resolve the problem of safely stopping the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Immediately after completion of the IV dose and 30 minutes before the next administration of the medication: This timing is correct for monitoring vancomycin levels. The peak level is typically measured immediately after the completion of the infusion (though peak levels are less commonly required for vancomycin), and the trough level is measured just before the next dose is due, 30 minutes before administration. This approach helps in evaluating the medication's efficacy and safety.
B. One hour after completion of the IV dose and one hour before the next administration of the medication: This timing is not ideal. The peak level for vancomycin is usually measured immediately after the dose rather than one hour later. Trough levels are measured closer to the next dose, typically 30 minutes before the next dose.
C. Two hours after completion of the IV dose and two hours before the next administration of the medication: Measuring levels two hours after the dose completion is too late for a peak level. The trough level should be measured closer to the next dose, generally 30 minutes before the next administration.
D. Thirty minutes into the administration of the IV dose and 30 minutes before the next administration of the medication: Measuring the level 30 minutes into the infusion is not appropriate for peak levels, which are typically measured.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer both prescribed medications as scheduled: Given that the client's total calcium level is already elevated (14 mg/dL), administering additional calcium carbonate could exacerbate hypercalcemia. Calcitriol, a form of vitamin D, can also increase calcium levels, so administering it without addressing the high calcium level could worsen the condition.
B. Hold the calcium carbonate, but administer the calcitriol as scheduled: This option is not appropriate because calcitriol can further increase calcium levels, potentially worsening hypercalcemia. Both medications should be reviewed, and their administration should be adjusted according to the client's current calcium status.
C. Hold the calcitriol, but administer the calcium carbonate as scheduled: Holding calcitriol alone would not address the potential for further increasing calcium levels. Calcium carbonate should also be withheld since the client is already hypercalcemic.
D. Hold both medications until contacting the healthcare provider: This is the most appropriate action. The client's elevated calcium level indicates hypercalcemia, which requires careful management. The healthcare provider should be contacted to assess the situation and determine the appropriate course of action to avoid worsening hypercalcemia.
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