Prior to administering oral doses of calcitriol and calcium carbonate to a client with hypoparathyroidism, the nurse notes that the total level of calcium is 14 mg/dL (3.5 mmol/L). Which action should the nurse implement?
Administer both prescribed medications as scheduled.
Hold the calcitriol but administer the calcium carbonate as scheduled.
Hold the calcium carbonate but administer the calcitriol as scheduled.
Hold both medications until contacting the healthcare provider.
The Correct Answer is D
A total calcium level of 14 mg/dL (3.5 mmol/L) is higher than the normal range of 2.2 to 2.6 millimoles per liter (mmol/L)1. Calcitriol and calcium carbonate are both medications used to increase calcium levels in the blood2. Since the client’s calcium level is already high, it would be important for the nurse to hold both medications and contact the healthcare provider for further instructions.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administers onto the fleshy outer thigh: This is the recommended site for epinephrine auto-injection because it allows for quick absorption into the bloodstream. The outer thigh is a large muscle area, which helps in the rapid distribution of the medication.
B. Inserts the injection pen through clothing: It is generally acceptable to inject epinephrine through clothing in an emergency situation. This practice ensures that there is no delay in administering the life-saving medication, which is crucial during an anaphylactic reaction.
C. Cleanses the injection pen for re-use: Epinephrine auto-injectors are designed for single use only. Reusing the pen can lead to contamination and reduced effectiveness of the medication. It is important to dispose of the used injector properly and obtain a new one for future use.
D. Holds the pen in place after injection: Holding the pen in place for a few seconds after injection ensures that the full dose of medication is delivered. This practice helps in maximizing the effectiveness of the treatment during an anaphylactic emergency.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Nitrofurantoin is an antibiotic commonly used to treat urinary tract infections. One of the adverse effects of nitrofurantoin is diarrhea, which may be severe and watery. Therefore, it is important for the home care nurse to inform the client that the diarrhea may be a side effect of the medication and requires further evaluation. The nurse should instruct the client to stop taking the medication and contact their healthcare provider for further assessment and treatment. The nurse should also assess the client's fluid and electrolyte status and monitor for signs of dehydration.
Option a is important to consider, but it does not address the potential adverse effect of the medication.
Option c may be appropriate in some cases, but it is not the priority intervention at this time.
Option d is not necessarily true and may cause unnecessary alarm to the client.

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