A nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for clopidogrel.
Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Administer the medication with each meal.
Have suction equipment at the bedside.
Monitor the client for black, tarry stools.
Initiate contact precautions.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. Monitor the client for black, tarry stools.
Choice A rationale:
Administering clopidogrel with each meal is not necessary. Clopidogrel can be taken with or without food. The primary concern with clopidogrel is its potential to cause bleeding, so monitoring for signs of bleeding is more critical.
Choice B rationale:
Having suction equipment at the bedside is not specifically required for clients taking clopidogrel. This action is more relevant for clients at risk of airway obstruction or those undergoing procedures that might require suctioning.
Choice C rationale:
Monitoring the client for black, tarry stools is essential because it can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, a known side effect of clopidogrel. This medication increases the risk of bleeding, so observing for signs of internal bleeding, such as melena (black, tarry stools), is crucial.
Choice D rationale:
Initiating contact precautions is not necessary for clients taking clopidogrel. Contact precautions are typically used to prevent the spread of infections, not for managing clients on antiplatelet therapy.
By understanding these rationales, the nurse can ensure the safe administration and monitoring of clopidogrel therapy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The nurse should not instruct the client to rest with the legs above heart level. While elevating the legs can be helpful for managing symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD), it is not a suitable choice for older adults, especially those with heart conditions. It can put additional strain on the heart and may not be appropriate for all clients. Elevation of the legs should be done with caution and under healthcare provider guidance.
Choice B rationale:
The nurse should not advise the client to wear antiembolic stockings during the day. Antiembolic stockings, also known as compression stockings, are primarily used for venous insufficiency and the prevention of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). They may not be effective or necessary for the management of PAD. It's important to tailor the instructions to the specific condition, and in the case of PAD, other strategies may be more appropriate.
Choice C rationale:
The correct answer is choice C. The nurse should instruct the client to adjust the thermostat so that the environment is warm. This is an important recommendation for clients with PAD because keeping the extremities warm can help improve circulation and reduce symptoms. Cold environments can exacerbate the vasoconstriction associated with PAD, leading to more discomfort. Maintaining a warm environment is a simple and effective measure for symptom management.
Choice D rationale:
The nurse should not recommend applying a heating pad on a low setting to help relieve leg pain. While heat can provide temporary relief for muscle pain, it may not be the best option for clients with PAD. Applying heat directly to the affected area can sometimes lead to burns or skin damage, especially in older adults who may have decreased sensation. Heat should be used cautiously, and other methods like keeping the environment warm are preferred.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
"Pitting edema of the lower legs.”. Pitting edema is a common sign of congestive heart failure (CHF), and it often occurs bilaterally in the lower extremities. While this is a potential finding in left-sided heart failure, it is not specific to it.
Choice B rationale:
"Jugular venous distention.”. Jugular venous distention (JVD) is more indicative of right-sided heart failure or elevated central venous pressure. It is not a typical finding in left-sided heart failure.
Choice C rationale:
"Shortness of breath while lying down.”. This is a classic symptom of left-sided heart failure, known as orthopnea. When the patient lies flat, fluid that has accumulated in the lungs can lead to difficulty breathing. Patients with left-sided heart failure often find relief by sleeping with their upper body elevated.
Choice D rationale:
"Right upper quadrant pain.”. Right upper quadrant pain is not a typical finding in left-sided heart failure. It may be associated with issues related to the liver or gallbladder but is not directly related to heart failure.
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