Nursing Elites

1. A client with chronic renal disease is receiving therapy with epoetin alfa. Which of the following laboratory results should the nurse review for an indication of a therapeutic effect of the medication?

• A. The leukocyte count
• B. The platelet count
• C. The hematocrit (Hct)
• D. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: The hematocrit (Hct). Monitoring the hematocrit is essential to assess the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa because this medication stimulates red blood cell production in clients with chronic renal disease. The leukocyte count (choice A) and platelet count (choice B) are not directly affected by epoetin alfa therapy. The erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) (choice D) is a non-specific marker of inflammation and is not used to monitor the therapeutic effect of epoetin alfa.

2. A client has a prescription for Clonidine to treat hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Discontinue the medication if you experience dry mouth.
• B. Take the medication at the same time each day.
• C. Double the dose if you miss a dose.
• D. Avoid drinking orange juice while taking this medication.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Correct Answer: Taking Clonidine at the same time each day is crucial to ensure consistent blood levels and effectively manage blood pressure. Consistency in timing helps optimize the medication's effectiveness in controlling hypertension.

3. Which of the following is not a side effect of Sympathoplegics (Clonidine)?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Difficulty breathing
• C. Dry oral cavity
• D. Lethargic behavior

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Clonidine, a Sympathoplegic, typically causes hypotension rather than hypertension. The other side effects associated with Clonidine include dry oral cavity, lethargic behavior, and difficulty breathing, making them incorrect choices in this context.

4. A client has a new prescription for alendronate to treat osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions should be included in the teaching?

• A. Take the medication with a full glass of water after rising in the morning.
• B. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• C. Take the medication with a meal to reduce gastric irritation.
• D. Crush the tablet and mix it with applesauce if difficulty swallowing.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for taking alendronate is to take it with a full glass of water after rising in the morning to prevent esophageal irritation. It is important to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Taking the medication with a meal or crushing the tablet are not recommended instructions for alendronate administration. Choice A is the correct answer as it aligns with the proper administration guidelines for alendronate.

5. A client has a new prescription for Furosemide. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hyponatremia
• C. Hypernatremia
• D. Hypercalcemia

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Furosemide is a diuretic that commonly causes hyponatremia (low sodium levels) due to its effect on sodium and water excretion. The nurse must closely monitor the client for signs of hyponatremia, such as weakness, confusion, and muscle cramps, and promptly intervene to prevent complications. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because Furosemide is not associated with hyperkalemia, hypernatremia, or hypercalcemia. Understanding the medication's mechanism of action helps prioritize monitoring for potential adverse effects.

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