In caring for a client who is receiving linezolid IV for nosocomial pneumonia, which assessment finding is most important for the nurse to report to the health care provider?
Yellow-tinged sputum
Nausea and headache
Watery diarrhea
Increased fatigue
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A: Yellow-tinged sputum is not a serious adverse effect of linezolid. It may indicate an infection or inflammation in the respiratory tract, but it does not require immediate attention from the health care provider.
Choice B: Nausea and headache are common side effects of linezolid. They are usually mild and self-limiting, and they can be managed with supportive measures such as hydration, rest, and analgesics.
Choice C: Watery diarrhea is a sign of pseudomembranous colitis, a potentially life-threatening complication of linezolid. It is caused by an overgrowth of Clostridium difficile bacteria in the colon, which produce toxins that damage the intestinal mucosa. It can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, sepsis, and perforation. The nurse should report this finding to the health care provider immediately and stop the linezolid infusion.
Choice D: Increased fatigue is not a specific or serious adverse effect of linezolid. It may be related to the underlying infection, anemia, or other factors. It does not require urgent intervention from the health care provider.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice B reason: Blood pressure of 122/74 mm Hg is within the normal range for a postpartum client and does not indicate an infection. However, the nurse should monitor for signs of preeclampsia or eclampsia, such as hypertension, proteinuria, headache, blurred vision, and seizures.
Choice C reason: Oral temperature of 100.2°F (37.9°C. is slightly elevated, but not necessarily indicative of an infection. A mild fever may occur within the first 24 hours after delivery due to dehydration or hormonal changes. However, if the fever persists or increases, the nurse should suspect an infection and notify the healthcare provider.
Choice D reason: White blood cell count of 19,000/mm^3 (19 x 10^9/L) is higher than the normal range, but not necessarily indicative of an infection. A leukocytosis or increased WBC count may occur as a normal response to stress or trauma during delivery. However, if the WBC count remains elevated or increases further, the nurse should suspect an infection and notify the healthcare provider.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A reason: Measuring abdominal girth is not a specific assessment for a client with a suprapubic catheter, which is a tube inserted through the lower abdomen into the bladder to drain urine. However, it may be useful for monitoring fluid status and abdominal distension.
Choice B reason: Assessing perineal area is not a specific assessment for a client with a suprapubic catheter, which is a tube inserted through the lower abdomen into the bladder to drain urine. However, it may be important for maintaining hygiene and preventing infection.
Choice D reason: Palpating flank area is not a specific assessment for a client with a suprapubic catheter, which is a tube inserted through the lower abdomen into the bladder to drain urine. However, it may be helpful for detecting kidney tenderness or enlargement.
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