A patient taking spironolactone has a follow-up appointment. Which of the following laboratory values would be most important to monitor?
Serum calcium levels
White blood cell count
Thyroid hormone levels
Serum potassium levels
The Correct Answer is D
Rationale:
A. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic and does not typically affect calcium levels. Monitoring calcium is not a priority unless the client has another condition affecting calcium metabolism.
B. Spironolactone does not directly affect WBC counts. Monitoring WBCs is unrelated to this medication unless the client is taking additional drugs that impact bone marrow or immune function.
C. Spironolactone does not influence thyroid function, so assessing TSH or thyroid hormone levels is not necessary for routine follow-up.
D. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which can increase serum potassium, potentially leading to hyperkalemia, a life-threatening condition. Monitoring potassium levels is essential to ensure safe use, particularly in clients with kidney impairment or those taking other potassium-increasing medications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This is not represented by the P wave. Repolarization of the ventricular conduction system is a component of the later part of the ECG, mainly within the T wave.
B. The P wave corresponds to atrial depolarization, which is the electrical activity that triggers atrial contraction. Proper identification of the P wave helps the nurse evaluate rhythm, rate, and atrial conduction.
C. Ventricular depolarization is represented by the QRS complex, not the P wave. This reflects the spread of electrical impulses through the ventricles, leading to ventricular contraction.
D. Early repolarization of the ventricles occurs at the beginning of the ST segment and is not associated with the P wave.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Rationale:
A. This is a long-term treatment for recurrent VT or other arrhythmias. It is not an immediate intervention for acute, unstable VT.
B. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation is performed only if the client is pulseless and unresponsive. While CPR may be necessary in cardiac arrest, it is not the first-line intervention for VT with a pulse.
C. Synchronized cardioversion is used for hemodynamically stable VT with a pulse, but the term “elective” implies a planned procedure, not emergency management.
D. For pulseless VT or VT causing severe instability (e.g., hypotension, altered mental status), defibrillation is the immediate lifesaving intervention. It delivers an unsynchronized shock to restore normal cardiac rhythm.
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