Nursing Elites

1. In a client with chronic renal failure receiving epoetin alfa (Epogen, Procrit), which laboratory result would indicate a therapeutic effect of the medication?

• A. Hematocrit of 32%
• B. Platelet count of 400,000 cells/mm³
• C. White blood cell count of 6000 cells/mm³
• D. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) level of 15 mg/dL

Correct answer: A

Rationale: A hematocrit of 32% indicates a therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa in a client with chronic renal failure. Epoetin alfa is used to treat anemia in these patients by stimulating red blood cell production, leading to an increase in the hematocrit level. Monitoring the hematocrit is essential to assess the response to epoetin alfa therapy.

2. A client with severe acne is seen in the clinic, and the healthcare provider prescribes isotretinoin. The nurse reviews the client's medication record and would contact the healthcare provider if the client is taking which medication?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Digoxin (Lanoxin)
• C. Furosemide (Lasix)
• D. Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Isotretinoin is a metabolite of vitamin A, which can lead to toxicity when taken together. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid concurrent use of vitamin A supplements with isotretinoin. Contacting the healthcare provider to discuss discontinuing vitamin A supplements is important to prevent potential adverse effects. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not known to interact significantly with isotretinoin.

3. A client is being taught about the use of nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) for angina. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I will sit or lie down when I take the medication.
• B. I can take up to three tablets, 5 minutes apart, if needed.
• C. I will call 911 if my chest pain is not relieved after taking three tablets.
• D. I will keep the medication in its original dark container.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct administration of nitroglycerin for angina is to take up to three tablets, 5 minutes apart. If the chest pain persists after the third tablet, emergency medical services should be called. Taking more than three tablets or reducing the time interval between doses may lead to hypotension and indicates a need for further teaching.

4. Before administering Methylergonovine (Methergine) to a client with postpartum hemorrhage caused by uterine atony, the nurse checks which of the following as the important client parameter?

• A. Temperature
• B. Lochial flow
• C. Urine output
• D. Blood pressure

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Methylergonovine (Methergine) acts by stimulating uterine contractions and causing vasoconstriction. As vasoconstriction can potentially impact blood pressure, it is crucial to check the client's blood pressure before administering Methylergonovine to monitor for any hypertensive effects.

5. A healthcare professional is planning to administer amlodipine (Norvasc) to a client. The healthcare professional plans to check which of the following before giving the medication?

• A. Respiratory rate
• B. Blood pressure and heart rate
• C. Heart rate and respiratory rate
• D. Level of consciousness and blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Before administering amlodipine, it is important to check the client's blood pressure and heart rate. Amlodipine is known to lower blood pressure and heart rate as part of its mechanism of action. Monitoring these vital signs helps ensure the safety of the client and allows for appropriate assessment of the medication's effects post-administration.

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