A nurse is reviewing laboratory reports for a client who is taking NSAIDs for rheumatoid arthritis. Which of the following results should the nurse recognize as a possible adverse effect of NSAID therapy?
Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate
Elevated creatinine clearance
Increased serum potassium
Positive fecal occult blood test
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A Reason
Increased erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a marker of inflammation and is commonly elevated in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. However, it is not a direct adverse effect of NSAID therapy. NSAIDs are more likely to cause gastrointestinal issues, such as bleeding, which would be detected by a fecal occult blood test.
Choice B Reason
Elevated creatinine clearance is not typically associated with NSAID use. In fact, NSAIDs can potentially reduce kidney function, leading to decreased creatinine clearance. Therefore, this option is incorrect.
Choice C Reason
Increased serum potassium levels can occur with NSAID use, especially in patients with compromised kidney function. However, this is less common compared to gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a more direct and frequent adverse effect of NSAID therapy.
Choice D Reason
Positive fecal occult blood test is the correct answer. NSAIDs can cause gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be detected through a fecal occult blood test. This is a well-documented adverse effect of NSAID therapy and is a significant concern for patients on long-term NSAID treatment.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason
“Tube drainage should be rust-colored.” This statement is incorrect. Normal NG tube drainage is typically greenish-yellow due to bile or clear if it is from the stomach. Rust-colored drainage could indicate bleeding and should be reported immediately.
Choice B Reason
“Nutrition will be provided through the tube.” This statement is incorrect. While NG tubes can be used for feeding, in the context of a postoperative colectomy, the primary purpose of the NG tube is usually to decompress the stomach and prevent nausea and vomiting. Enteral feeding is typically done through a different type of tube, such as a nasojejunal tube.
Choice C Reason
“The tube decreases pressure within the stomach.” This is the correct statement. An NG tube is often used postoperatively to decompress the stomach, which helps to reduce pressure, prevent vomiting, and allow the gastrointestinal tract to heal.
Choice D Reason
“The tube should be irrigated with sterile water.” This statement is partially correct but needs context. NG tubes should be irrigated to maintain patency, but the type of solution (sterile water, saline) can vary based on hospital protocol. The primary focus here is on the purpose of the NG tube rather than the irrigation technique.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Decreasing leg strength is a common symptom of Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) and indicates the progression of muscle weakness. While it is concerning and should be monitored, it is not as immediately critical as respiratory complications.
Choice B Reason:
Decreasing voice volume can indicate involvement of the cranial nerves and potential respiratory muscle weakness, which can lead to respiratory failure. This is an urgent finding that requires immediate attention to prevent respiratory complications.
Choice C Reason:
Decreased deep tendon reflexes are a hallmark of GBS and are expected in the progression of the disease. While they should be documented and monitored, they do not require immediate reporting unless accompanied by other critical symptoms.
Choice D Reason:
Decreased sensation in the arms is another common symptom of GBS due to peripheral nerve involvement. It should be monitored, but it is not as urgent as signs of respiratory compromise.
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