A patient hospitalized for heart failure exacerbation has been receiving 40 mg furosemide IV twice daily. What statement by the client would alert the nurse to a possible toxic effect of this medication?
My stomach is distended, and I haven't had a bowel movement in 3 days
This IV site seems irritated, it's red and painful
Everything has started sounding muffled, I'm having difficulty hearing
I feel like I've done nothing but urinate since I've been here
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: This choice is incorrect because stomach distension and constipation are not common side effects of furosemide. They may be related to other causes, such as diet, fluid intake, or medication interactions. The nurse should assess the client's abdominal status and bowel habits and provide appropriate interventions, such as increasing fiber, fluids, or laxatives.
Choice B reason: This choice is incorrect because IV site irritation, redness, and pain are not specific side effects of furosemide. They may be caused by other factors, such as infection, infiltration, or phlebitis. The nurse should inspect the IV site and catheter and change them if needed. The nurse should also monitor the client's vital signs and blood cultures for signs of infection.
Choice C reason: This choice is correct because hearing loss or impairment is a rare but serious side effect of furosemide. It can occur due to damage to the inner ear or the auditory nerve. It may be temporary or permanent, depending on the dose and duration of furosemide therapy. The nurse should stop the infusion of furosemide and notify the provider immediately. The nurse should also assess the client's hearing and balance and provide safety measures.
Choice D reason: This choice is incorrect because frequent urination is an expected effect of furosemide. Furosemide is a diuretic that increases the excretion of water and electrolytes through the urine. It helps to reduce fluid overload and edema in clients with heart failure. The nurse should measure and record the client's intake and output and monitor the client's fluid and electrolyte status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: Using a soft bristled tooth brush can prevent gum bleeding and irritation that may occur with a hard bristled tooth brush. Gum bleeding can be a sign of excessive anticoagulation and increased risk of bleeding.
Choice B reason: Reporting black or bloody bowel movements is important because it can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be a serious complication of warfarin therapy. Gastrointestinal bleeding can cause anemia, shock, and even death if not treated promptly.
Choice C reason: Limiting all fruits and vegetables is not necessary for a client taking warfarin. However, some fruits and vegetables, especially those that are high in vitamin K, can interfere with the effect of warfarin and increase the risk of clotting. Vitamin K is found in green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, kale, broccoli, and cabbage, and some fruits, such as avocado, kiwi, and grapes. The client should maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K and avoid sudden changes in their diet.
Choice D reason: Reporting coffee ground or bloody emesis is also important because it can indicate upper gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be another serious complication of warfarin therapy. Upper gastrointestinal bleeding can cause hematemesis, melena, anemia, and hypovolemic shock.
Choice E reason: Shaving with an electric razor instead of a razor blade can prevent skin cuts and bleeding that may occur with a razor blade. Skin cuts and bleeding can be a sign of excessive anticoagulation and increased risk of bleeding.
Correct Answer is ["0.75"]
Explanation
To calculate the amount of heparin to administer, we can use the following formula:
Amount to administer (mL) = (Desired dose (units) / Available dose (units/mL))
Plugging in the given values:
Amount to administer (mL) = (7,500 units / 10,000 units/mL)
Now, let's solve for the amount to administer:
Amount to administer (mL) = (7,500 / 10,000) = 0.75 mL
So, the nurse should administer 0.75 mL of heparin subcutaneously.
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