A nurse is providing teaching to a client who has chronic rheumatoid arthritis and a new prescription for hydroxychloroquine. The nurse should instruct the client to obtain which of the following diagnostic studies routinely?
Eye examination
Chest -ray
Pancreatic enzyme levels
Urinalysis screening
The Correct Answer is A
When providing teaching to a client with chronic rheumatoid arthritis who is starting a new prescription for hydroxychloroquine, the nurse should instruct the client to obtain routine eye examinations. Hydroxychloroquine is an antimalarial and immunosuppressive medication commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune conditions.
One of the potential side effects of hydroxychloroquine is ocular toxicity, particularly affecting the retina. Retinal toxicity can lead to vision changes or, in severe cases, irreversible damage to the eyes. Therefore, regular eye examinations are necessary to monitor for any signs of retinal toxicity and detect any visual changes early to prevent further complications.
The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends that patients taking hydroxychloroquine undergo a baseline eye examination before starting the medication and annual eye examinations thereafter, especially after five years of continuous use.
Let's go through the other options:
B. Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray is not routinely required for monitoring clients taking hydroxychloroquine for rheumatoid arthritis. Hydroxychloroquine is not known to cause significant respiratory or pulmonary side effects.
C. Pancreatic enzyme levels: Monitoring pancreatic enzyme levels is not specifically related to hydroxychloroquine therapy. Pancreatic enzyme level testing is typically used to assess the function of the pancreas in conditions like pancreatitis or pancreatic insufficiency.
D. Urinalysis screening: While regular monitoring of kidney function is important for clients on long-term medication therapy, routine urinalysis screening is not specifically related to hydroxychloroquine use in clients with rheumatoid arthritis. Regular eye examinations are of higher priority due to the potential ocular toxicity associated with this medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
TPN is a form of nutrition given intravenously to provide essential nutrients when a client is unable to consume an adequate oral diet. One of the potential adverse effects of TPN is fluid overload, which can manifest as peripheral edema. The presence of 2+ peripheral pitting edema indicates the accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues. It is important for the nurse to monitor the client's fluid balance closely and assess for signs of fluid overload, such as edema, to prevent complications.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Alopecia: Alopecia, or hair loss, is a common side effect of many chemotherapy drugs, including paclitaxel. While it can be distressing for the client, alopecia is not a life-threatening side effect and does not require immediate intervention. It is essential for the nurse to provide emotional support to the client experiencing hair loss and educate them about potential ways to cope with it.
B. Muscle pain: Muscle pain, also known as myalgia, is another common side effect of paclitaxel and many other chemotherapy agents. While it can cause discomfort for the client, myalgia is generally managed with pain medications and supportive care. It is not a priority finding that requires immediate reporting to the provider unless it becomes severe or debilitating.
C. Nausea: Nausea is a well-known side effect of chemotherapy, including paclitaxel. It is often managed with antiemetic medications and other supportive measures. While severe or persistent nausea can lead to dehydration and other complications, it is not an immediate life-threatening concern in most cases.
D. Bradycardia: This is the correct answer. Bradycardia (slow heart rate) is a less common but more concerning side effect of paclitaxel. It may indicate potential cardiac toxicity, which is a serious and potentially life-threatening complication. The healthcare provider should be notified promptly so that appropriate evaluation and intervention can be initiated to manage any cardiac issues and prevent further complications.
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