A patient is receiving alteplase (Activase), a thrombolytic drug. The nurse monitors the patient for which of the following possible adverse effects?
Temperature of 100.8 Degrees Fahrenheit (38.2 Degrees Celsius)
Skin rash with urticaria
Wheezing with labored breathing
Bruising and epistaxis
The Correct Answer is D
A. Temperature of 100.8 Degrees Fahrenheit (38.2 Degrees Celsius): Fever can indicate a potential adverse reaction to the medication or may be a sign of infection, which could complicate the patient's condition. While a fever can be a sign of an infection, it's not a typical adverse effect for alteplase
B. Skin rash with urticaria: Skin rash and urticaria (hives) can indicate an allergic reaction to alteplase. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may necessitate discontinuation of the medication and administration of appropriate treatment, such as antihistamines or corticosteroids, depending on the severity of the reaction but it's less common than bleeding.
C. Wheezing with labored breathing: Wheezing and labored breathing can indicate a severe allergic reaction or anaphylaxis to alteplase but again, bleeding is a more prominent concern.
D. Bruising and epistaxis: Alteplase increases the risk of bleeding due to its thrombolytic activity. Bruising and epistaxis (nosebleeds) are common manifestations of bleeding associated with alteplase therapy. Monitoring for these signs helps detect potential bleeding complications early, allowing for prompt intervention to minimize further bleeding and manage the patient's condition appropriately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Diminished effect from warfarin: This is unlikely because displacement of warfarin from protein binding sites would increase its concentration in the bloodstream, potentially leading to increased anticoagulant effects and toxicity.
B. Diminished effect from paroxetine: This is also unlikely because displacement of paroxetine from protein binding sites would increase its concentration in the bloodstream, potentially leading to increased pharmacological effects and toxicity.
C. Increased effect, and toxicity from paroxetine: If paroxetine displaces warfarin from protein binding sites, it can increase the concentration of free warfarin in the bloodstream, leading to increased anticoagulant effects and potential toxicity.
D. Increased effect, and toxicity from warfarin: Correct. If warfarin is displaced from protein binding sites by paroxetine, it can increase the concentration of free warfarin in the bloodstream, leading to increased anticoagulant effects and potential toxicity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Most CAM therapies are totally ineffective: Incorrect. Dismissing all CAM therapies as ineffective without considering individual cases could lead to overlooking potentially helpful treatments for patients.
B. Additional treatment may not be needed: Incorrect. Collecting information about CAM use allows healthcare providers to assess the overall treatment regimen comprehensively.
C. Patients must be warned that most CAM therapies are dangerous: Incorrect. While some CAM therapies may carry risks, it's not accurate to generalize that most CAM therapies are dangerous.
D. CAM therapies could interact with prescription and OTC medications: Correct. Understanding potential interactions between CAM therapies and conventional medications is essential for patient safety and optimal treatment outcomes.
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