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. Vitamin K: Vitamin K is the antidote for warfarin, not heparin. Warfarin works by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors in the liver. Therefore, vitamin K is used to reverse the effects of warfarin in cases of over-anticoagulation. It does not reverse the effects of heparin.
B. Deferoxamine: Deferoxamine is a chelating agent used to treat iron toxicity and aluminum overload. It is not indicated for reversing the effects of heparin.
C. Acetylcysteine: Acetylcysteine is used as an antidote for acetaminophen (paracetamol) overdose. It is not indicated for reversing the effects of heparin.
D. Protamine sulfate: This is the correct answer. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin. It works by binding to heparin to form a stable complex, thereby neutralizing its anticoagulant effects. Protamine sulfate is commonly used in clinical practice to reverse the effects of heparin in situations such as hemorrhage or when rapid reversal of anticoagulation is needed, such as before surgery.
Correct Answer is ["B","C"]
Explanation
A. Constipation: Constipation is not a commonly reported adverse effect of clopidogrel (Plavix). Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication that works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, and gastrointestinal effects such as constipation are not typically associated with its use.
B. Bruising: This is a correct answer. Bruising is a known adverse effect of clopidogrel. As an antiplatelet medication, clopidogrel inhibits platelet aggregation, which can increase the risk of bleeding and bruising.
C. Rash: Rash is a potential adverse effect of clopidogrel, although it is not as common as other side effects such as bruising or gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients taking clopidogrel should be monitored for signs of allergic reactions, including rash, which may indicate the need for further evaluation or discontinuation of the medication.
D. Headache: Headache is not a commonly reported adverse effect of clopidogrel. While some patients may experience headache while taking clopidogrel, it is not considered a frequent or significant side effect of the medication.
E. Diarrhea: Diarrhea is not a commonly reported adverse effect of clopidogrel. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea are not typically associated with clopidogrel use, although some patients may experience gastrointestinal upset as a side effect of antiplatelet therapy.
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