Nursing Elites

1. A client is prescribed Clopidogrel. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse monitor to assess for potential adverse effects?

• A. White blood cell count
• B. Platelet count
• C. Hemoglobin
• D. Blood glucose

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Clopidogrel is an antiplatelet medication that works by inhibiting platelet aggregation. Therefore, the nurse should monitor the client's platelet count to assess for potential bleeding complications. Changes in platelet count can indicate the effectiveness of Clopidogrel therapy and help prevent adverse effects related to clotting or bleeding. Monitoring white blood cell count, hemoglobin, or blood glucose levels is not directly related to the action or side effects of Clopidogrel.

2. A client has a new prescription for Clonidine to assist with maintenance of abstinence from opioids. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor for which of the following adverse effects?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Dry mouth
• C. Insomnia
• D. Hypertension

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Dry mouth is a common adverse effect associated with Clonidine use. Clonidine is known to cause a reduction in saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Monitoring for this adverse effect is essential to ensure client comfort and compliance with the medication. Diarrhea is not a common adverse effect of Clonidine. Insomnia is more commonly associated with opioid withdrawal rather than Clonidine use. While Clonidine is used to treat hypertension, it is not typically an adverse effect of the medication.

3. The nurse is caring for a client who has chronic angina. Treatment for the condition has been unsuccessful. Which medication does the nurse anticipate will be prescribed?

• A. Atenolol (Tenormin)
• B. Nitroglycerin (Nitrostat)
• C. Sildenafil (Viagra)
• D. Ranolazine (Ranexa)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: In cases of chronic angina where initial treatment has not been successful, Ranolazine (Ranexa) is often prescribed. This medication helps by reducing the frequency of angina episodes. Atenolol, Nitroglycerin, and Sildenafil are also used in angina management but Ranolazine is more specifically indicated in cases of refractory angina where other treatments have failed.

4. A client has a new prescription for Lovastatin. Which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
• B. Take this medication in the morning.
• C. Take this medication at bedtime.
• D. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Lovastatin should be taken at bedtime because cholesterol production in the liver is highest at night, making the medication more effective in reducing cholesterol levels. By taking it at bedtime, the medication aligns with the body's natural rhythm of cholesterol synthesis, optimizing its therapeutic effects.

5. A client has a new prescription for Atorvastatin. Which of the following instructions should be included?

• A. Take this medication with food.
• B. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.
• C. Take this medication in the morning.
• D. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid drinking grapefruit juice when taking Atorvastatin. Grapefruit juice can interfere with the metabolism of Atorvastatin, leading to increased blood levels of the medication, which can result in a higher risk of adverse effects, such as muscle pain and liver damage. It is important for the client to follow this instruction to ensure the safe and effective use of Atorvastatin. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. While taking Atorvastatin with food may be recommended for some individuals to reduce stomach upset, it is not a crucial instruction. The timing of Atorvastatin administration can vary depending on individual needs and is not universally fixed to the morning. Increasing potassium-rich foods is not directly related to Atorvastatin use and is not a standard precautionary measure associated with this medication.

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