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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A. Platelets 74,000/mm: A platelet count of 74,000/mm³ is significantly lower than the normal range (typically 150,000 to 450,000/mm³). This could indicate heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), a serious adverse effect of heparin therapy where the immune system forms antibodies against heparin bound to platelet factor 4, leading to a decrease in platelets and increased risk of thrombosis. This is a critical finding and should be reported immediately to the provider for further evaluation and potential adjustment of the treatment plan.

B. White blood cell count 8,000/mm³: This is within the normal range (typically 4,000 to 11,000/mm³) and does not indicate an immediate problem related to heparin therapy or pulmonary embolism management.

C. Partial thromboplastin time (PTT) 55 seconds: While slightly elevated, this PTT is within the therapeutic range for a patient receiving IV heparin (typically 1.5 to 2.5 times the normal control value, or about 45 to 70 seconds). This indicates that the heparin is having the desired anticoagulant effect.

D. Hematocrit 45%: This is within the normal range for adults (typically 38-50% for men and 35-45% for women) and does not indicate an immediate concern related to heparin therapy or pulmonary embolism.

A. Most CAM therapies are totally ineffective B. Patient must be warned the most CAM therapies for dangerous C. Additional treatment may not be needed D. CAM therapies could interact with prescription and OTC medications

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

A. Most CAM therapies are not totally ineffective: While some CAM therapies may lack strong scientific evidence, it's not accurate to say they are all ineffective. Some CAM therapies may have benefits, but it's important to be aware of them to avoid interactions.

B. Not all CAM therapies are dangerous: Many CAM therapies are generally safe. However, some can interact with medications or have unforeseen side effects, so assessing use is crucial.

C. Additional treatment may still be needed: Even if a patient uses CAM, they might still require conventional medical treatment. Assessing CAM use helps ensure a complete picture of the patient's healthcare regimen.

D. CAM therapies could interact with prescription and OTC medications. Correct. The primary reason to assess CAM use is to identify potential interactions with medications, potentially improving patient safety and treatment effectiveness.

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A patient is receiving alteplase (Activase), a thrombolytic drug. The nurse monitors the patient for which of the following possible adverse effects?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is reviewing laboratory data from a client who has pulmonary embolism and is receiving IV heparin. Which of the following findings should the nurse report to the provider?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

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Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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