A nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings for a female client who is taking zidovudine to treat HIV. Which of the following should the nurse identify as an adverse finding associated with this medication?
Neutrophil count 650/mm³ (2,500 to 8,000/mm³).
Platelets 450,000/mm³ (150,000 to 400,000/mm³).
Hgb 17 g/dL (12 to 16 g/dL).
Creatinine 1.5 mg/dL (0.5 to 1 mg/dL).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A neutrophil count of 650/mm³ is significantly lower than the normal range (2,500 to 8,000/mm³) and indicates neutropenia, which is a known adverse effect of zidovudine. Neutropenia increases the risk of infections and requires close monitoring and potential dose adjustment or discontinuation of the medication.
Choice B rationale
A platelet count of 450,000/mm³ is slightly above the normal range (150,000 to 400,000/mm³) but is not typically associated with zidovudine toxicity. Zidovudine is more commonly associated with bone marrow suppression leading to anemia and neutropenia rather than thrombocytosis.
Choice C rationale
An Hgb level of 17 g/dL is above the normal range for females (12 to 16 g/dL) but is not a common adverse effect of zidovudine. Zidovudine is more likely to cause anemia, leading to lower hemoglobin levels rather than elevated levels.
Choice D rationale
A creatinine level of 1.5 mg/dL is within the upper limit of the normal range (0.5 to 1 mg/dL) and is not a typical adverse effect of zidovudine. Zidovudine primarily affects the bone marrow and does not have a significant impact on renal function.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
CBC results are not directly related to the initiation of alendronate therapy.
Choice B rationale
Family history of colon cancer is not relevant to alendronate therapy.
Choice C rationale
Thyroid function is not directly related to alendronate therapy.
Choice D rationale
Pregnancy status should be assessed as alendronate is contraindicated during pregnancy.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Hyperglycemia is not a common adverse effect of colesevelam. Colesevelam is primarily used to lower cholesterol levels and can also help control blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Choice B rationale
Stomatitis, or inflammation of the mouth, is not typically associated with colesevelam. This medication works in the intestines and is not absorbed into the bloodstream, so it does not commonly cause systemic side effects.
Choice C rationale
Fever is not a known adverse effect of colesevelam. The medication’s side effects are generally limited to the gastrointestinal system.
Choice D rationale
Constipation is a common adverse effect of colesevelam. This medication binds to bile acids in the intestines, which can lead to gastrointestinal side effects such as constipation.
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