The nurse is providing discharge instructions to a client who has been prescribed gabapentin 300 mg by mouth (PO) three times a day for postherpetic neuralgia. Which symptom should the nurse tell the client to report to the healthcare provider?
Gastric irritation.
Rapid weight gain.
Sexual dysfunction.
Photosensitivity.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Gastric irritation:
Gastric irritation is not a common side effect of gabapentin. While gastrointestinal symptoms can occur, they are not typically severe or indicative of a serious issue. Thus, this symptom is less critical to report immediately.
B. Rapid weight gain:
Rapid weight gain can be a significant side effect of gabapentin, potentially indicating fluid retention or other systemic issues. It is important to report this symptom, as it may require further evaluation and adjustment of the medication.
C. Sexual dysfunction:
Sexual dysfunction is not commonly reported with gabapentin. While it may affect some individuals, it is not typically a primary concern for discontinuing or altering treatment. Therefore, it is less urgent compared to other side effects.
D. Photosensitivity:
Photosensitivity is not a recognized side effect of gabapentin. The medication does not generally cause sensitivity to light, so this symptom is unlikely to be related to gabapentin use and is less critical to report immediately.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Instruct the client that it is necessary to take nothing but water with the medication:
Risedronate, a bisphosphonate used for osteoporosis, should be taken with a full glass of water on an empty stomach. The client should remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to enhance absorption and reduce the risk of esophageal irritation. Milk and other beverages can interfere with the absorption of the medication.
B. Withhold the medication until the client's breakfast tray is available on the unit:
This would delay the medication unnecessarily. Risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure proper absorption.
C. Consult with a pharmacist about scheduling the dose one hour after the client eats:
This is not appropriate as risedronate should be taken on an empty stomach to ensure maximum absorption. Consulting a pharmacist in this context may lead to a misunderstanding of the medication's administration requirements.
D. Assign an unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to bring the client a glass of low fat milk:
Offering milk with risedronate is inappropriate as it interferes with the medication’s absorption. The client should only take the medication with water.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Determine Glasgow Coma Scale score: While assessing the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score is important for evaluating the level of consciousness and neurological status, it does not address the immediate life-threatening issue of severe respiratory depression and hypoxia. The client's critical respiratory status and low oxygen saturation require more urgent intervention.
B) Prepare to assist with chest tube insertion: Preparing for chest tube insertion is not appropriate in this scenario, as the client's symptoms are related to severe respiratory depression rather than a condition that would require chest drainage. Chest tube insertion is indicated for conditions such as pneumothorax or pleural effusion, not for opioid overdose.
C) Initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR): CPR would be necessary if the client were in cardiac arrest or if there were no pulse and respiratory effort. However, the immediate issue appears to be severe respiratory depression rather than cardiac arrest, so administering a second dose of naloxone is a more appropriate and immediate action to address the cause of the client's condition.
D) Administer a second dose of naloxone: Given the client’s severe respiratory depression and low oxygen saturation despite the initial dose of naloxone, it is crucial to administer a second dose. Naloxone is used to reverse opioid overdose effects, and its administration should be repeated if symptoms persist, ensuring the client’s safety and potentially reversing the opioid’s effects on the respiratory system.
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