A nurse is reviewing laboratory results for a client who has been taking amoxicillin-clavulanate (Augmentin) for a bacterial respiratory tract infection.
Which of the following findings should alert the nurse to a possible adverse effect of this medication? (Select all that apply.).
Elevated serum creatinine level.
Elevated serum alanine aminotransferase level.
Elevated serum potassium level.
Elevated white blood cell count.
Correct Answer : A,B,D
Choice A rationale:
An elevated serum creatinine level can indicate kidney dysfunction or damage, which can be a possible adverse effect of amoxicillin-clavulanate. The kidneys are responsible for excreting the medication, and elevated creatinine levels suggest impaired renal function.
Choice B rationale:
An elevated serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level is indicative of liver dysfunction or damage. Amoxicillin-clavulanate can sometimes cause hepatotoxicity as a side effect, and elevated ALT levels may suggest this adverse effect.
Choice D rationale:
An elevated white blood cell count (leukocytosis) can be a possible adverse effect of amoxicillin-clavulanate, indicating an increase in the body's immune response. This could be due to an allergic reaction or other adverse reactions to the medication.
Choice C rationale:
An elevated serum potassium level is not typically associated with amoxicillin-clavulanate use. This finding is more likely related to other factors such as kidney dysfunction or certain medications like potassium-sparing diuretics.
Choice E rationale:
An elevated platelet count is not typically associated with amoxicillin-clavulanate use. This finding is more likely related to other factors, such as a bone marrow disorder or inflammation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale: The described posture is decorticate posturing, a sign of severe brain damage. This indicates a deteriorating neurological status and requires immediate reporting to the healthcare provider to prevent further injury.
Choice B rationale: The client's response is a non-purposeful, reflexive motor movement rather than a purposeful attempt to remove the painful stimulus. Documenting it as a purposeful response would be clinically inaccurate and misleading.
Choice C rationale: While neurological injury increases seizure risk, decorticate posturing is a direct sign of midbrain or cortical dysfunction. The immediate priority is addressing the underlying cause of the abnormal posturing and neurological decline.
Choice D rationale: Administering an analgesic could mask further neurological changes and depress the central nervous system. The priority is a full neurological assessment and notifying the physician of the client's severe motor response.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice B rationale:
Giving the wife a straw to help facilitate the client's drinking is not the most appropriate action in this situation. The client's facial paralysis and inability to move his left side could be indicative of a possible stroke or cerebral vascular accident (CVA). Before attempting to give the client fluids, it is essential to assess his swallowing reflex to prevent aspiration and ensure safety. Using a straw may not address the underlying issue.
Choice C rationale:
Assisting the wife and carefully giving the client small sips of water without assessing the swallowing reflex can be risky. If the client has impaired swallowing, this action could lead to aspiration and further complications. Assessing the client's ability to swallow is the priority to ensure safe oral intake.
Choice D rationale:
Obtaining thickening powder before providing any more fluids is premature without first assessing the client's swallowing ability. Thickened liquids may be necessary if the client has dysphagia, but the nurse should assess the client's condition and consult with the healthcare provider before making this decision. Assessing the swallowing reflex is the first step in determining the appropriate course of action.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.