An older adult client has been prescribed metformin for the treatment of type 2 diabetes for several years. Which change in the client's laboratory values may demonstrate a need to discontinue the medication?
An increase in serum lactate
A decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit
An increase in white blood cells
A decrease in potassium accompanied by an increase in sodium
The Correct Answer is A
A. An increase in serum lactate – This is a critical laboratory value that can indicate lactic acidosis, a serious side effect associated with metformin, especially in older adults or those with renal impairment. An increase in serum lactate necessitates discontinuation of the medication.
B. A decrease in hemoglobin and hematocrit – While this change may indicate anemia, it is not directly associated with the need to discontinue metformin. Further evaluation of the cause of anemia would be necessary.
C. An increase in white blood cells – This could indicate an infection or inflammatory process but does not specifically necessitate the discontinuation of metformin.
D. A decrease in potassium accompanied by an increase in sodium – While electrolyte imbalances should be monitored, this change does not directly indicate that metformin should be discontinued.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
This intervention is important to ensure accurate dosing and prevent medication errors. Insulin is a high-alert medication, meaning that it has a high potential for causing significant harm to the patient if administered incorrectly. Doublechecking the insulin dosage with a colleague can help prevent errors in dosing, which could lead to hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia in the client. It is also important to confirm the dosage since insulin dosing is based on individualized factors such as the client's blood glucose levels, weight, and overall health status.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Flumazenil is a medication that is used as an antidote for benzodiazepine overdose, including diazepam. Benzodiazepines are a class of drugs that are used to treat anxiety, insomnia, seizures, and other conditions. However, they can also be abused or taken in excessive doses, leading to overdose.
Flumazenil works by binding to the same receptors in the brain that benzodiazepines bind to, but it has the opposite effect. Flumazenil blocks the activity of benzodiazepines and can rapidly reverse the effects of an overdose, including respiratory depression, sedation, and coma.
It is important to note that flumazenil should only be used in cases of benzodiazepine overdose and should be administered under close medical supervision. Flumazenil may cause seizures in clients who are physically dependent on benzodiazepines, and it should not be used as a substitute for appropriate medical care and monitoring.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.