A patient is receiving linezolid IV for nosocomial pneumonia.
Which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the healthcare provider?
Watery diarrhea.
Increased fatigue.
Nausea and headache.
Yellow-tinged sputum.
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
Watery diarrhea is a significant side effect of linezolid and could indicate a serious condition called antibiotic-associated colitis, which is caused by an overgrowth of the bacterium Clostridium difficile. This condition requires immediate medical attention.
Choice B rationale
Increased fatigue is a common side effect of many medications, including linezolid. While it should be reported to the healthcare provider, it is not as urgent as watery diarrhea.
Choice C rationale
Nausea and headache are common side effects of linezolid. While they should be reported to the healthcare provider, they are not as urgent as watery diarrhea.
Choice D rationale
Yellow-tinged sputum could indicate an infection or other lung condition. However, in the context of a patient receiving linezolid for nosocomial pneumonia, it is not as urgent as watery diarrhea.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
In a patient with a recent exacerbation of heart failure who is feeling uncomfortable and anxious, with a sensation of flopping in the chest, the rhythm of the apical pulse should be prioritized. This is because changes in heart rhythm can indicate worsening heart failure or other serious cardiac conditions.
Choice B rationale
While the volume of pedal pulses can provide information about peripheral circulation, it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Choice C rationale
The degree of skin elasticity can provide information about hydration status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Choice D rationale
The length of capillary refill can provide information about peripheral circulation and overall cardiovascular status, but it is not as immediately relevant as the rhythm of the apical pulse in a patient with heart failure experiencing discomfort and anxiety.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Diarrhea and flatulence are common side effects of lovastatin, but they are not typically serious enough to require immediate follow-up.
Choice B rationale
Abdominal cramps can occur with lovastatin use, but they are not usually a sign of a serious problem.
Choice C rationale
Altered taste is a less common side effect of lovastatin and is not typically a cause for immediate concern.
Choice D rationale
Muscle pain can be a sign of a rare but serious side effect of lovastatin called rhabdomyolysis. This condition involves the breakdown of muscle tissue, which can lead to kidney damage. Therefore, this symptom should be prioritized for immediate follow-up.
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