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 is incorrect because tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, is not an adverse effect of captopril, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as ear infection, noise exposure, or medication toxicity.
- B is correct because cough is a serious adverse effect of captopril, which is an angiotensinconverting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor that can cause angioedema, or swelling of the airways.
- C is incorrect because polyuria, or excessive urination, is not an adverse effect of captopril, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as diabetes mellitus, diabetes insipidus, or diuretic use.
- D is incorrect because blurred vision is not an adverse effect of captopril, but rather a symptom of other conditions such as eye strain, refractive error, or cataract.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Limiting fluid intake to 1 liter per day can lead to dehydration and other health complications. It is important for the client to maintain adequate hydration, especially postpartum. This option is incorrect and potentially harmful.
Choice B rationale:
Manual expression of milk can help relieve engorgement without stimulating further milk production. This method allows the client to express milk as needed. However, it can be done even before engorgment occurs
Choice C rationale:
Wearing a snug-fitting bra can provide support and comfort.
Choice D rationale:
Applying moist heat to the breasts can stimulate milk production and relieve engorgement. However, in this case, the client wants to suppress lactation. Therefore, this option is not appropriate and may have the opposite effect of increasing milk production.
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