what do you assess for in a patient who is on valproate
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Nursing Elites

ATI RN

ATI Proctored Pharmacology 2023

1. What should you assess for in a patient who is on Valproate?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Suicidal thoughts. When a patient is prescribed Valproate, it is crucial to assess for suicidal thoughts as it is a serious side effect associated with this medication. Valproate has been linked to an increased risk of suicidal ideation and behavior, particularly in patients with epilepsy or bipolar disorder. Monitoring for signs of depression or changes in behavior is essential to ensure patient safety and well-being. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because while monitoring for seizures, managing bipolar disorder, and treating migraines are also important considerations when a patient is on Valproate, assessing for suicidal thoughts takes priority due to the serious nature of this potential side effect.

2. A client has a new prescription for Metformin. Which of the following adverse effects of Metformin should the nurse instruct the client to report to the provider?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Somnolence. Somnolence can indicate lactic acidosis, a rare but serious adverse effect of Metformin. Lactic acidosis is manifested by extreme drowsiness, hyperventilation, and muscle pain. Clients should be instructed to report these symptoms to their healthcare provider promptly to prevent further complications.

3. A client has an infection and a prescription for gentamicin intermittent IV bolus every 8 hr. A peak and trough is required with the next dose. Which of the following actions should be taken to obtain an accurate gentamicin serum level?

Correct answer: C

Rationale: To obtain an accurate gentamicin serum level, the trough should be drawn immediately before administering the medication, and the peak level should be drawn 30 minutes after the dose. This timing allows for the assessment of the lowest and highest drug concentrations in the bloodstream, ensuring therapeutic levels are achieved while minimizing the risk of toxicity. Choice A is correct as it follows this timing protocol. Choices B and D have incorrect timing for peak and trough levels, which would not provide an accurate representation of the drug's concentration in the bloodstream.

4. What is the antidote for Heparin?

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Protamine sulfate. Heparin is an anticoagulant that prevents blood clotting. Protamine sulfate is the antidote for Heparin as it binds to heparin, neutralizing its anticoagulant effects. Vitamin K is not the antidote for Heparin; it is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, another anticoagulant. Naloxone is an opioid antagonist for opioids, and Toradol is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) for pain relief. Therefore, the correct antidote for Heparin is Protamine sulfate.

5. A client is receiving treatment with carboplatin. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor?

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Carboplatin is known to cause ototoxicity as a serious adverse effect. It is essential for the nurse to monitor the client for any signs or symptoms of hearing loss or other auditory issues to address them promptly. Incorrect Choices Rationale: A) Hyperglycemia is not a common side effect associated with carboplatin. C) Hypertension is not a typical finding to monitor for specifically related to carboplatin treatment. D) Bradycardia is not a primary concern when monitoring a client on carboplatin.

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