Prior to administering an oral dose of methylprednisolone, the nurse determines the client's serum total calcium level is 5.5 mg/dl (1.4 mmol/L). Which action is most important for the nurse to take?

Reference Range:

Total Calcium 9 to 10.4 mg/dL (2.3 to 2.6 mmol/L)
A. Notify the healthcare provider immediately

B.Administer a calcium supplement as ordered by the healthcare provider

C. Administer the medication with a glass of milk.

D. Begin tapering the drug dose per protocol.

Notify the healthcare provider immediately

Administer a calcium supplement as ordered by the healthcare provider

Administer the medication with a glass of milk.

Begin tapering the drug dose per protocol.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is A

A) A total calcium level of 5.5 mg/dL (1.4 mmol/L) is critically low, as the normal reference range for total calcium is between 9 to 10.4 mg/dL (2.3 to 2.6 mmol/L). Hypocalcemia can lead to serious complications such as tetany, arrhythmias, and seizures. Before administering methylprednisolone, which can further decrease calcium levels and contribute to osteoporosis, it is essential to notify the healthcare provider to address the client's low calcium level. This may involve correcting the calcium deficiency before proceeding with the administration of the

B) If a healthcare provider orders a calcium supplement for the client, administering it would be appropriate to help correct the hypocalcemia before administering methylprednisolone. However, in the absence of a direct order, the nurse should first notify the healthcare provider to ensure that the client's calcium levels are addressed appropriately before proceeding with any medication that could exacerbate the issue. The priority is to manage the low calcium levels before administering corticosteroids like methylprednisolone.

C) Administering methylprednisolone with a glass of milk may help with calcium absorption; however, this does not directly address the critical issue of hypocalcemia. The nurse must first prioritize notifying the healthcare provider and correcting the calcium imbalance before proceeding with medication administration.

D) Tapering the dose of methylprednisolone is not immediately appropriate based on the low calcium level alone. Methylprednisolone is often tapered to avoid withdrawal symptoms, but the nurse's first priority is to address the client's hypocalcemia, which can have more immediate clinical consequences. The focus should be on stabilizing the calcium level first.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Taking ferrous sulfate elixir with a glass of milk is not recommended because milk can interfere with the absorption of iron. Iron absorption is enhanced in an acidic environment, and milk's ca’cium content can inhibit this process.

B) Using a straw to ingest the ferrous sulfate elixir is advisable because it can help minimize contact between the medication and the teeth, reducing the risk of staining. Iron supplements can cause discoloration of the teeth, and using a straw directs the liquid towards the back of the mouth, bypassing the teeth.

C) Swallowing ferrous sulfate elixir undiluted is the usual method of administration; however, doing so may increase the risk of staining the teeth due to direct contact with the oral mucosa and teeth. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's in’tructions regarding dosage and administration.

D) Mixing ferrous sulfate elixir with an antacid is generally not recommended unless specifically directed by the healthcare provider. Antacids containing calcium or magnesium can bind to iron, forming complexes that are poorly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby reducing the effectiveness of iron supplementation.

A. Decreased blood urea nitrogen. B. Hearing has decreased. C. Reports of photophobia. D. White blood cell count of 6,000/mm3 (6 x 10/1)

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Decreased blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is not a typical adverse effect of gentamicin. Gentamicin is primarily associated with nephrotoxicity (kidney damage), which would manifest as an increased BUN and serum creatinine rather than a decrease.

B) Hearing loss is a well-known adverse effect of gentamicin, particularly when the drug reaches high concentrations in the inner ear (ototoxicity). Gentamicin can cause irreversible damage to the cochlear and vestibular organs, leading to sensorineural hearing loss and balance disturbances.

C) Reports of photophobia are not typically associated with gentamicin. Photophobia (sensitivity to light) may occur with certain eye conditions or central nervous system disorders but is not a direct adverse effect of gentamicin.

D) A white blood cell count of 6,000/mm3 falls within the normal reference range, so it does not indicate an adverse effect of gentamicin. Gentamicin is not known to directly affect white blood cell count.

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Ferrous sulfate elixir is prescribed for a client with iron deficiency anemia. Which instruction should the nurse provide this client about taking the liquid medication?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A male client has been receiving the antibiotic gentamicin sulfate, IV piggyback every 12 hours for several days. Which observation by the nurse indicates that the client may be experiencing an adverse effect of gentamicin? Reference Range: White Blood Cell [5000 to 10,000/mm3 (5 to 10 x 10%)]

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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