Which adverse effects associated with levodopa therapy would support the nursing diagnosis Risk for Injury?
Orthostatic hypotension
Nausea and vomiting
Anorexia and depression
Tachycardia and palpitations
The Correct Answer is A
A. Orthostatic hypotension:
Orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, is a potential adverse effect of levodopa therapy. This can lead to dizziness and increase the risk of falls, thus supporting the nursing diagnosis Risk for Injury.
B. Nausea and vomiting:
Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of levodopa therapy. While they can cause discomfort and dehydration, they are less directly related to the risk of physical injury compared to orthostatic hypotension.
C. Anorexia and depression:
Anorexia (loss of appetite) and depression can occur as adverse effects of levodopa therapy. While they can affect the patient's overall well-being and quality of life, they are not directly associated with an increased risk of physical injury.
D. Tachycardia and palpitations:
Tachycardia (rapid heart rate) and palpitations are less common adverse effects of levodopa therapy. While they may indicate cardiovascular issues, they are not typically associated with a direct risk of physical injury.

Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["10"]
Explanation
To calculate the dose of valproic acid oral solution, the nurse should use the following formula:
Dose (mL) = Ordered dose (mg) / Concentration (mg/mL) x Volume (mL)
Plugging in the values from the question, we get:
Dose (mL) = 500 mg / (250 mg / 5 mL) x 5 mL
Simplifying, we get:
Dose (mL) = 500 mg / 50 mg x 5 mL
Dose (mL) = 10 mL
Therefore, the nurse should administer 10 of valproic acid oral solution to the patient.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "I will notify my provider before taking any other medications."
This statement demonstrates understanding of the importance of consulting the provider before taking any other medications. It is correct because phenytoin may interact with other drugs, so notifying the provider is essential to avoid potential interactions.
B. "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week."
This statement indicates that the client understands the importance of dental care while taking phenytoin. Phenytoin can cause gum overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia), so regular dental check-ups are recommended to monitor oral health. This statement is correct.
C. "I will take this medication with meals."
This statement suggests that the client plans to take phenytoin with meals. However, phenytoin should generally be taken on an empty stomach to enhance absorption, unless gastrointestinal upset occurs. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for further teaching.
D. "I'll be glad when my seizures stop so I can quit taking this medicine."
This statement reflects a misconception about the management of epilepsy. Phenytoin is typically used as a long-term treatment to prevent seizures, not as a short-term solution to stop seizures. Therefore, this statement indicates a need for further education about the chronic nature of epilepsy and the need for ongoing medication adherence.
E. “I’ll take this medication before meals.”
This statement correctly indicates the timing of phenytoin administration before meals. Taking phenytoin before meals helps enhance absorption and minimize the risk of gastrointestinal side effects. Therefore, this statement is correct.
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