A nurse caring for a client who has a new prescription for atenolol. For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor the clients
Hypokalemia
Bradycardia
Anemia
Neutropenia
The Correct Answer is B
Atenolol is a beta-blocker medication commonly used to treat conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and certain heart rhythm disorders. One of the intended effects of atenolol is to lower the heart rate by blocking the action of adrenaline on beta receptors in the heart. However, this can sometimes result in bradycardia, which refers to a heart rate that is slower than the normal range.
Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels, is not directly caused by atenolol but can be an indirect effect. Beta-blockers like atenolol can potentially interfere with the normal release of insulin and contribute to increased urinary excretion of potassium. Therefore, it's important to monitor potassium levels in clients taking atenolol, as low potassium levels can have adverse effects on various body systems.
Anemia and neutropenia are not typically associated with the use of atenolol. Anemia refers to a decrease in the number of red blood cells or a decrease in the amount of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen to the body tissues. Neutropenia refers to a decrease in the number of neutrophils, which are a type of white blood cell involved in fighting infection.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Metoclopramide is a medication commonly used to treat gastrointestinal disorders such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). While it is generally well-tolerated, it can have some adverse effects. Sedation is one of the common side effects of metoclopramide. It can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and a feeling of tiredness in some individuals. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client for any signs of sedation or excessive drowsiness, especially when the client starts taking the medication or when the dose is increased.
Hypertension: Metoclopramide is not known to cause hypertension (high blood pressure) as a common side effect. In fact, it may have a mild hypotensive (blood pressure-lowering) effect in some individuals.
Urinary retention: Metoclopramide does not typically cause urinary retention. Instead, it can enhance gastrointestinal motility and increase the frequency of bowel movements.
Blurred vision: While visual disturbances are rare adverse effects of metoclopramide, blurred vision is not a commonly reported side effect. However, other visual disturbances like oculogyric crisis (involuntary rolling back of the eyes) have been reported in rare cases. Nevertheless, monitoring for blurred vision specifically is not a priority when administering metoclopramide.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
After administering lactulose to a client with cirrhosis, the nurse should monitor for the adverse effects of diarrhea. Lactulose is a laxative commonly used in the treatment of hepatic encephalopathy, which can occur in individuals with cirrhosis. One of the intended effects of lactulose is to promote bowel movements and reduce the absorption of ammonia in the gut, thus helping to manage hepatic encephalopathy.
While lactulose can cause adverse effects such as diarrhea, it is not typically associated with peripheral edema. Peripheral edema is often seen in cirrhosis due to fluid retention caused by liver dysfunction.
Dry mouth and headache are less commonly associated with lactulose use and are not typically the primary adverse effects to monitor for in this scenario.
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