. A nurse is caring for a client who is taking alendronate to treat osteoporosis. The nurse should monitor for which of the following adverse effects?
Drowsiness
Dyskinesia
Musculoskeletal pain
Weight gain
The Correct Answer is C
A. Drowsiness. Alendronate, a bisphosphonate used to treat osteoporosis, does not cause drowsiness. It primarily affects bone metabolism rather than the central nervous system. If a client experiences drowsiness, it is likely due to another cause rather than the medication itself.
B. Dyskinesia. Dyskinesia refers to involuntary movements often associated with neurological disorders or medications affecting dopamine, such as antipsychotics or Parkinson’s medications. Alendronate does not affect dopamine or the nervous system, making dyskinesia an unlikely adverse effect.
C. Musculoskeletal pain. A known side effect of alendronate is musculoskeletal pain, including bone, joint, and muscle discomfort. This occurs due to the medication’s effects on bone remodeling and turnover. While mild pain may resolve on its own, persistent or severe pain should be reported to the provider as it may require dose adjustment or discontinuation.
D. Weight gain. Alendronate does not cause weight gain. It primarily acts on bone tissue to inhibit osteoclast-mediated bone resorption, preventing further bone loss. Clients experiencing unexplained weight gain should be evaluated for other potential causes, such as metabolic conditions or lifestyle factors.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Place a thick layer of the medication on open areas." Topical corticosteroids like fluticasone should not be applied in thick layers or to open wounds, as excessive absorption can lead to systemic side effects such as adrenal suppression. A thin layer is sufficient to achieve the desired anti-inflammatory effects while minimizing adverse reactions.
B. “Rub the medication until it disappears.” Topical corticosteroids should be applied in a thin layer and gently rubbed into the skin until no visible residue remains. This ensures even absorption without excessive medication buildup, reducing the risk of local and systemic side effects, especially in infants who have a higher risk of absorption due to their thinner skin.
C. "Cover the area with an occlusive dressing." Occlusive dressings increase medication absorption, which can lead to systemic corticosteroid effects such as skin thinning, delayed wound healing, and adrenal suppression. Occlusion should only be used under medical supervision, especially in infants who are more susceptible to these effects.
D. "Apply the medication to your infant's entire arm." Fluticasone should be applied only to affected areas, not the entire limb. Applying it over a larger area than necessary increases the risk of systemic absorption and side effects. The medication should be used only as directed for targeted treatment of atopic dermatitis.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Atropine. Atropine is an anticholinergic medication used to treat bradycardia and reduce secretions before surgery. It has no effect on reversing anticoagulation caused by heparin and would not be an appropriate treatment for heparin overdose.
B. Vitamin K. Vitamin K is used as an antidote for warfarin toxicity, as it helps produce clotting factors that warfarin inhibits. However, it does not reverse the effects of heparin, which works by enhancing the activity of antithrombin to prevent clot formation.
C. Vitamin B12. Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production and neurological function, primarily used to treat conditions like pernicious anemia. It does not have any role in reversing the anticoagulant effects of heparin and would not be beneficial in this situation.
D. Protamine. Protamine sulfate is the specific antidote for heparin overdose. It binds to heparin, neutralizing its anticoagulant effects and preventing excessive bleeding. Protamine is administered intravenously in cases of heparin toxicity or when urgent reversal is needed, such as before surgery or in cases of uncontrolled bleeding.
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