A nurse is caring for a client who has developed agranulocytosis as a result of taking propylthiouracil to treat hyperthyroidism. The nurse should understand that this client is at increased risk for which of the following conditions?
Infection
Excessive bleeding
Hyperglycemia
Ecchymosis
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A reason: Infection is the correct condition that the client is at increased risk for. Agranulocytosis is a severe decrease in the number of granulocytes, which are a type of white blood cell that fight infection. Propylthiouracil is an antithyroid drug that can cause agranulocytosis as a rare but serious side effect. The client with agranulocytosis is more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections, and may present with fever, sore throat, mouth ulcers, and skin lesions.
Choice B reason: Excessive bleeding is not the correct condition that the client is at increased risk for. Agranulocytosis does not affect the platelets, which are the blood cells that help with clotting. Propylthiouracil does not cause bleeding disorders, although it may interact with anticoagulants and increase their effect.
Choice C reason: Hyperglycemia is not the correct condition that the client is at increased risk for. Agranulocytosis does not affect the insulin, which is the hormone that regulates blood glucose levels. Propylthiouracil does not cause hyperglycemia, although it may interfere with the metabolism of oral hypoglycemic agents and decrease their effect.
Choice D reason: Ecchymosis is not the correct condition that the client is at increased risk for. Ecchymosis is a bruise caused by bleeding under the skin. Agranulocytosis does not cause ecchymosis, as it does not affect the blood vessels or the platelets. Propylthiouracil does not cause ecchymosis, although it may increase the risk of skin rash and pruritus.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Black cohosh is an herbal supplement that is used to treat menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and mood swings. It does not have a significant interaction with warfarin and does not affect the coagulation status of the client.
Choice B reason: Echinacea is an herbal supplement that is used to boost the immune system and prevent or treat common colds and infections. It does not have a significant interaction with warfarin and does not affect the coagulation status of the client.
Choice C reason: Feverfew is an herbal supplement that is used to treat migraines, arthritis, and fever. It has a significant interaction with warfarin and can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising. It can also reduce the effectiveness of warfarin and alter the client's international normalized ratio (INR).
Choice D reason: Flaxseed is an herbal supplement that is used to lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and inflammation. It does not have a significant interaction with warfarin and does not affect the coagulation status of the client.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A reason: Reducing intake of potassium-rich foods is not necessary for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to increased potassium excretion in the urine. Clients may need to increase their intake of potassium-rich foods or take potassium supplements to prevent hypokalemia.
Choice B reason: Avoiding grapefruit juice is not necessary for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication does not interact with grapefruit juice. Grapefruit juice can affect the metabolism of some other medications, such as statins, calcium channel blockers, and cyclosporine, by inhibiting the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver.
Choice C reason: Taking this medication before bedtime is not advisable for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause increased urination and nocturia (nighttime urination). Clients should take this medication in the morning or at least 6 hours before bedtime to avoid disrupting their sleep.
Choice D reason: Monitoring for leg cramps is an important instruction for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide, as this medication can cause muscle cramps due to electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia, hyponatremia (low sodium levels), or hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). Clients should report any signs of muscle cramps, weakness, or fatigue to their provider.
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