a nurse is caring for a client who has a prescription for heparin which of the following laboratory tests should the nurse monitor while the client is

ATI RN

ATI Pharmacology Test Bank

1. A client has a prescription for Heparin. Which of the following laboratory tests should be monitored while the client is receiving Heparin?

A. Prothrombin time (PT)
B. Complete blood count (CBC)
C. International normalized ratio (INR)
D. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the correct laboratory test to monitor while a client is receiving Heparin. This test is used to assess the therapeutic levels of heparin in the blood, ensuring that the dose is within the safe and effective range. Monitoring aPTT helps healthcare providers adjust the dosage of Heparin to prevent complications such as bleeding or clotting.

2. A client is taking Warfarin for atrial fibrillation. Which of the following client statements indicates a need for further teaching?

A. I will avoid eating broccoli.
B. I will use an electric razor to shave.
C. I will take aspirin for headaches.
D. I will have my blood tested regularly.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C. Taking aspirin along with Warfarin can increase the risk of bleeding. Clients should be advised to avoid medications that increase the risk of bleeding when taking Warfarin to prevent complications. Choices A, B, and D are all correct statements indicating good understanding of Warfarin therapy. Avoiding foods high in Vitamin K, using an electric razor to prevent cuts that can lead to bleeding, and regular blood testing to monitor Warfarin levels are all important aspects of managing Warfarin therapy.

3. Which of the following is not a side effect of the vasodilator Nifedipine?

A. Nausea
B. Flushed appearance
C. Vertigo
D. Sexual dysfunction

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Sexual dysfunction is not a common side effect of vasodilators such as Nifedipine. Nausea, flushed appearance, and vertigo are more commonly reported side effects associated with this medication. It's essential for healthcare providers to be aware of the potential side effects to monitor and manage them effectively in patients prescribed with Nifedipine.

4. A client has a new prescription for Prednisone and is receiving discharge instructions. Which of the following dietary instructions should the nurse include?

A. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
B. Increase your intake of dairy products.
C. Avoid foods high in vitamin K.
D. Decrease your intake of protein.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to increase the intake of potassium-rich foods. Prednisone can lead to potassium depletion; therefore, it is essential for clients to consume foods high in potassium such as bananas, oranges, and spinach to counteract this effect and maintain electrolyte balance. Choice B is incorrect because increasing dairy products is not directly related to the side effects of Prednisone. Choice C is incorrect because avoiding foods high in vitamin K is more relevant for clients on anticoagulants. Choice D is incorrect because decreasing protein intake is not a typical dietary instruction for clients prescribed Prednisone.

5. When administering Phenytoin, what should you monitor?

A. Behavior
B. Therapeutic blood levels
C. For signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome
D. All of the above

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When administering Phenytoin, monitoring the patient's behavior is important to assess for any changes that may indicate adverse effects. Monitoring therapeutic blood levels helps ensure the medication is within the effective range and not causing toxicity. Additionally, being vigilant for signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a severe skin reaction associated with Phenytoin use, is crucial for early detection and intervention. Therefore, monitoring behavior, therapeutic blood levels, and for signs of Stevens-Johnson syndrome are all essential when administering Phenytoin.