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 B
Explanation
Choice A reason: Explaining to the client that the dosage has been changed is not a safe action because it may not be true. The nurse should not assume that the prescribed dosage is correct or different from the previous one without verifying it with the healthcare provider or the medication record.
Choice C reason: Informing him that he may refuse the medication and documenting whether or not he takes it is not a responsible action because it does not address the issue of dosage discrepancy. The nurse should respect the client's right to refuse medication, but should also educate him about the benefits and risks of taking or not taking it. The nurse should also try to resolve any barriers or concerns that may affect the client's adherence to medication.
Choice D reason: Telling him to take the medication then verifying the dosage at the next healthcare team meeting is not a timely action because it may cause harm or complications to the client. The nurse should not administer any medication without checking its accuracy and appropriateness for the client. The nurse should also report and document any medication incidents as soon as possible.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A: Measuring urine output daily is not a specific statement for the nurse to include, as this is a general recommendation for all clients with urinary catheters and does not address the potential complications of a suprapubic catheter. This is a distractor choice.
Choice B: Observing urine color and clarity is not a relevant statement for the nurse to include, as this does not reflect the condition of the suprapubic catheter or its insertion site. This is another distractor choice.
Choice C: Inspecting genital area for signs of infection is an important statement for the nurse to include, as this can help detect and prevent urinary tract infection, peritonitis, or abscess formation, which are common risks associated with suprapubic catheters. Therefore, this is the correct choice.
Choice D: Palpating flank area for tenderness is not a necessary statement for the nurse to include, as this is not an accurate or reliable method to assess for kidney function or damage, which are unlikely to occur with a suprapubic catheter. This is another distractor choice.
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