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.
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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 D
Explanation
Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe mental illness that requires lifelong treatment. Antipsychotic medications are the cornerstone of treatment for schizophrenia, and they work by blocking dopamine receptors in the brain. These medications are effective in reducing the positive symptoms of schizophrenia, such as hallucinations and delusions, and can also improve negative symptoms like apathy and lack of motivation.
While chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, and haloperidol are all first-generation or "typical" antipsychotic medications, they are less commonly used today due to their side effect profile, which can include movement disorders such as tardive dyskinesia. Olanzapine, on the other hand, is a second-generation or "atypical" antipsychotic medication that is commonly used today due to its efficacy in treating both positive and negative symptoms of schizophrenia, as well as its more favorable side effect profile compared to first-generation antipsychotics.
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