A nurse is caring for a client who has a fungal infection and has a new prescription for amphotericin
Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse report to the provider before initiating the medication?
Sodium 140 mEq/L B. Glucose 120 mg/dL
Potassium 4.5 mEq/L
BUN 55 mg/dL
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale:
Sodium levels in the blood are typically between 135 and 145 milliequivalents per liter (mEq/L). A sodium level of 140 mEq/L falls within this range, indicating normal sodium levels. Sodium plays a key role in your body. It helps maintain normal blood pressure, supports the work of your nerves and muscles, and regulates your body’s fluid balance. A normal sodium level is therefore crucial for the body’s overall function.
Choice B rationale:
A glucose level of 120 mg/dL is considered normal for a fasting blood sugar test. Glucose is your body’s main source of energy. It comes from the food you eat and is carried through your bloodstream to the cells of your body. If the glucose level in the blood is too high or too low, it can indicate a medical condition such as diabetes.
Choice C rationale:
Potassium levels in the blood are typically between 3.6 and 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). A potassium level of 4.5 mEq/L falls within this range, indicating normal potassium levels. Potassium is a type of electrolyte that is vital to the function of nerve and muscle cells, including those in your heart. Your blood potassium level is normally 3.6 to 5.2 millimoles per liter (mmol/L). Having a blood potassium level higher than 6.0 mmol/L can be dangerous and usually requires immediate treatment.
Choice D rationale:
The Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) test is a routine test used to assess kidney function. Urea nitrogen is a waste product that’s created in your liver when the body breaks down proteins. Healthy kidneys filter urea nitrogen from your blood, but when your kidneys aren’t working well, the BUN level rises. The normal range for BUN is typically around 7-20 mg/dL2. A BUN level of 55 mg/dL is significantly higher than the normal range, indicating that the kidneys may not be functioning properly. This is a critical finding that should be reported to the provider before initiating the medication amphotericin B. Amphotericin B is an antifungal medication used to treat serious, life-threatening fungal infections. However, it is known for its severe and potentially lethal side effects, including kidney damage. Therefore, a high BUN level should be reported to the provider before initiating this medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Macrolides Macrolides, such as erythromycin and azithromycin, are a class of antibiotics that are typically used to treat infections caused by gram-positive bacteria and some respiratory tract infections. They are not the first line of treatment for urinary tract infections.
Choice B rationale:
Sulfonamides Sulfonamides, such as sulfamethoxazole, are often used to treat urinary tract infections. They work by stopping the growth of bacteria. Sulfonamides are often combined with other antibiotics like trimethoprim to increase their effectiveness. This combination is commonly known as co-trimoxazole.
Choice C rationale:
Carbapenems Carbapenems are a class of antibiotics that are usually reserved for serious infections caused by gram-negative bacteria. While they can be used to treat a variety of infections, they are not typically the first choice for urinary tract infections.
Choice D rationale:
Tetracyclines Tetracyclines are a group of broad-spectrum antibiotics that are effective against a wide range of bacteria. However, they are not typically used for urinary tract infections. They are more commonly used for infections such as acne, chlamydia, and Lyme disease.
Please consult with a healthcare professional for accurate information.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Erythromycin Erythromycin is a macrolide antibiotic that is often used as an alternative to penicillin. It is generally safe for use in patients with a penicillin allergy. It works by inhibiting bacterial protein synthesis and is effective against a wide range of bacteria.
Choice B rationale:
Amphotericin B Amphotericin B is an antifungal medication, not an antibiotic. It is used to treat serious, systemic fungal infections. It has no cross-reactivity with penicillin, so it would not be a concern for a patient with a penicillin allergy.
Choice C rationale:
Amoxicillin-clavulanate Amoxicillin-clavulanate is a type of penicillin antibiotic. Patients with a known penicillin allergy should avoid this medication, as they may have a cross-reactivity to it. This is why the nurse should verify this prescription with the provider.
Choice D rationale:
Gentamicin Gentamicin is an aminoglycoside antibiotic used to treat serious bacterial infections caused by gram-negative bacteria. It is not related to penicillin and would be safe for a patient with a penicillin allergy.
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.