A nurse is caring for a client who is taking valproic acid for seizure control. For which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor and report?
Weight loss
Jaundice
Bradycardia
Polyuria
The Correct Answer is B
Jaundice.
Rationale:
- A. Weight loss is not a common or serious adverse effect of valproic acid. Valproic acid can cause weight gain, not weight loss.
- B. Jaundice is a sign of liver damage, which is a serious and potentially fatal adverse effect of valproic acid. Valproic acid can impair fatty acid metabolism and mitochondrial function, leading to hepatotoxicity and steatosis. The nurse should monitor the client's liver function tests and report any signs of jaundice, such as yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or clay-colored stools .
- C. Bradycardia is not a common or serious adverse effect of valproic acid. Valproic acid can cause cardiac arrhythmias, but they are usually tachycardic, not bradycardic.
- D. Polyuria is not a common or serious adverse effect of valproic acid. Valproic acid can cause hypernatremia and hypocalcemia, which can affect urine output, but polyuria is not a specific symptom of these electrolyte imbalances.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. "Limit each of the client's visitors to 2 hr per day."
This is incorrect. While visitors should have their exposure limited, the recommended duration is typically much shorter (around 30 minutes to 1 hour), not 2 hours. This is to reduce radiation exposure.
B. "Instruct visitors to stay 1 m (3.3 feet) away from the client."
This is correct. For clients undergoing brachytherapy with a low-dose radiation implant, visitors should maintain a safe distance, usually at least 6 feet (1.8 meters), but some guidelines may state a minimum of 3.3 feet (1 meter) for safety, depending on the specific radiation dose and facility protocols.
C. "Attach a dosimeter to the client's gown."
This is incorrect. Dosimeters are generally worn by healthcare providers, not the patient. The primary purpose is to measure the radiation exposure of healthcare workers, not the patient.
D. "Strain the client's urine."
This is incorrect. Straining urine is not necessary for a patient undergoing brachytherapy. However, it may be important to monitor the urine for signs of radiation leakage, but straining is not a routine part of care.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Assisted living facilities are suitable for individuals who need assistance with activities of daily living but do not require skilled nursing care. This option might not be necessary based on the partner's exhaustion alone.
Choice B rationale:
Respite care provides temporary relief to caregivers, allowing them to take a break from their caregiving responsibilities. Given the partner's exhaustion, respite care would offer the much-needed rest, reducing caregiver burnout and ensuring better care for the client at home.
Choice C rationale:
Rehabilitation services are designed for patients who need specialized therapy after an illness or injury. While they might be beneficial for the client following a stroke, they do not directly address the partner's exhaustion and need for relief.
Choice D rationale:
Skilled nursing facilities provide 24/7 medical care for individuals with complex medical needs. The partner's exhaustion does not necessarily indicate the need for skilled nursing care, as the client's condition and care requirements were not provided in the scenario.
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