LPN LPN
LPN Pharmacology Assessment A
1. The client with a history of heart failure is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). Which electrolyte imbalance increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?
- A. Hypernatremia
- B. Hypercalcemia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypomagnesemia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity as low potassium levels enhance the effects of digoxin on the heart, leading to toxicity and potential adverse effects. Hypernatremia (Choice A) is not directly associated with an increased risk of digoxin toxicity. Hypercalcemia (Choice B) does not increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Hypomagnesemia (Choice D) can contribute to digoxin toxicity, but hypokalemia has a more significant impact on increasing the risk.
2. The client is receiving anticoagulant therapy for atrial fibrillation. Which laboratory test should be monitored to determine the effectiveness of the therapy?
- A. Prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR)
- B. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
- C. Platelet count
- D. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR) are essential laboratory tests to monitor the effectiveness of anticoagulant therapy in clients with atrial fibrillation. These tests help ensure that the client is within the therapeutic range and are commonly used to assess the clotting ability of the blood. Monitoring PT and INR levels allows healthcare providers to adjust anticoagulant dosages as needed to prevent complications such as bleeding or thrombosis. Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is more commonly used to monitor heparin therapy, not anticoagulant therapy for atrial fibrillation. Platelet count assesses the number of platelets in the blood and is not a direct indicator of anticoagulant therapy effectiveness. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) is a nonspecific marker of inflammation and is not used to monitor anticoagulant therapy.
3. The client has angina pectoris and is prescribed nitroglycerin patches. What instruction should the nurse provide to the client?
- A. Apply the patch to the chest and leave it in place for 24 hours
- B. Apply the patch to a different site each time to prevent skin irritation
- C. Remove the patch before going to bed to prevent tolerance
- D. Cut the patch in half if experiencing headaches
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to provide to the client is to apply the nitroglycerin patch to a different site each time to prevent skin irritation. Rotating the application site is crucial to prevent skin irritation and ensure consistent absorption of the medication. Applying the patch to the same site can lead to skin irritation and decreased effectiveness. Removing the patch before going to bed is not necessary, as the patch can typically be worn for a specific duration. Cutting the patch in half if experiencing headaches is not recommended and can alter the dose of the medication.
4. The healthcare provider is teaching a client about the use of nitroglycerin patches for angina pectoris. Which instruction should the healthcare provider include?
- A. Apply the patch to the same site each day
- B. Remove the patch at bedtime to prevent tolerance
- C. Cover the patch with a bandage to keep it in place
- D. Rotate the application site every 24 hours
Correct answer: D
Rationale: Rotating the application site every 24 hours is crucial when using nitroglycerin patches to prevent skin irritation and ensure consistent absorption of the medication. By rotating the site, the risk of local skin reactions is reduced, and the effectiveness of the nitroglycerin patch is maintained. Applying the patch to the same site each day (Choice A) can lead to skin irritation. Removing the patch at bedtime (Choice B) is not necessary as long as the prescribed wearing schedule is followed. Covering the patch with a bandage (Choice C) is not recommended as it may interfere with proper absorption.
5. A client with a diagnosis of heart failure is being discharged. What information should the nurse emphasize to the client regarding the use of a daily weight log?
- A. Report any weight gain of more than 2 pounds in a day
- B. Weigh yourself after eating breakfast each morning
- C. Use the same scale each day to check your weight
- D. Record your weight daily and report any changes
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: 'Report any weight gain of more than 2 pounds in a day.' Sudden weight gain of more than 2 pounds in a day may indicate fluid retention and worsening heart failure. This information is crucial for early intervention and monitoring of the client's condition. Weighing after eating breakfast (choice B) may not provide consistent results due to varying food and fluid intake. Using the same scale each day (choice C) ensures accuracy and consistency in weight measurements. Recording weight daily (choice D) is more frequent than necessary and may not be practical for all clients. It is essential to focus on significant weight changes to prevent unnecessary alarm or confusion.
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