A nurse is reviewing the laboratory data of a client who is receiving filgrastim. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor to evaluate the effectiveness of the treatment?
INR
Potassium level
WBC count
BUN
The Correct Answer is C
A. INR (International Normalized Ratio): INR is a measure of blood clotting and is not directly affected by filgrastim, which stimulates the production of white blood cells. Monitoring INR is more relevant when assessing anticoagulant therapy.
B. Potassium level: Filgrastim does not directly influence potassium levels. Monitoring potassium is important for certain medications and conditions, but it is not the primary parameter to evaluate the effectiveness of filgrastim.
C. WBC count: Filgrastim (granulocyte colony-stimulating factor) is used to stimulate the production of white blood cells, specifically neutrophils. Monitoring the white blood cell count is crucial in evaluating the effectiveness of filgrastim treatment. An increase in the WBC count, particularly the neutrophil count, indicates a positive response to the medication.
D. BUN (Blood Urea Nitrogen): BUN is a measure of kidney function and is not directly influenced by filgrastim. While monitoring kidney function is important in general patient care, it is not the primary parameter to assess the effectiveness of filgrastim.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. INR 1.0: The International Normalized Ratio (INR) is a measure of blood clotting. A value of 1.0 is within the normal range, so there is no immediate concern related to furosemide administration based on this INR value.
B. WBC count 8,000/mm³: The white blood cell count is not directly related to furosemide administration, and the value of 8,000/mm³ is within the normal range. There is no immediate concern based on this WBC count.
C. Sodium 141 mEq/L: The sodium level is within the normal range, and it is not a contraindication for furosemide administration.
D. Potassium 2.5 mEq/L: A potassium level of 2.5 mEq/L is significantly below the normal range. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to potassium loss, and administering it when the potassium level is already low can further decrease potassium levels, potentially leading to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, the nurse should withhold the medication and contact the provider to address the low potassium level before administering furosemide.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Bone loss:
This is the correct answer. Long-term use of corticosteroids, such as prednisone, is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis and bone loss. This effect is particularly significant in older adults.
B. Hypoglycemia:
Prednisone is more likely to cause hyperglycemia (high blood sugar) rather than hypoglycemia. It can lead to insulin resistance and impaired glucose metabolism.
C. Liver toxicity:
Liver toxicity is not a common adverse effect of prednisone. Prednisone is metabolized in the liver, but significant liver toxicity is not a typical concern with its use.
D. Hemolytic anemia:
Hemolytic anemia is not a common adverse effect of prednisone. Corticosteroids can affect the immune system, but hemolytic anemia is not a typical manifestation.
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