Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving heparin therapy. Which laboratory value should be monitored by the nurse to evaluate the effectiveness of the therapy?

• A. PT
• B. aPTT
• C. INR
• D. Platelet count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is specifically used to monitor the effectiveness of heparin therapy. It should be maintained at 1.5 to 2 times the normal level. Monitoring aPTT helps ensure that the therapeutic range of heparin is achieved to prevent clot formation while minimizing the risk of bleeding complications. Choice A (PT) is incorrect as it is used to monitor warfarin therapy, not heparin. Choice C (INR) is also incorrect as it is primarily used to monitor warfarin therapy. Choice D (Platelet count) is not directly related to monitoring the effectiveness of heparin therapy.

2. A client is receiving vancomycin. Which of the following laboratory results should be monitored to evaluate the therapeutic effect of this medication?

• A. BUN
• B. Creatinine
• C. Hemoglobin
• D. White blood cell count

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Creatinine levels should be monitored to evaluate vancomycin's effect on kidney function. Vancomycin can be nephrotoxic, so monitoring creatinine levels helps assess renal function and ensure that the medication is not causing harm to the kidneys. Monitoring BUN (choice A) is important for assessing kidney function but is not as specific as monitoring creatinine levels. Hemoglobin (choice C) and white blood cell count (choice D) are not directly related to evaluating the therapeutic effect of vancomycin.

3. A toddler is being admitted to the hospital after an Acetaminophen overdose. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate administering to this patient?

• A. Acetylcysteine
• B. Pegfilgrastim
• C. Misoprostol
• D. Naltrexone

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In cases of Acetaminophen overdose, acetylcysteine is the antidote of choice. Acetylcysteine helps prevent liver damage by replenishing depleted glutathione levels, which is essential for detoxifying acetaminophen metabolites. Pegfilgrastim is a medication used to stimulate white blood cell production, Misoprostol is a medication for preventing stomach ulcers, and Naltrexone is used for treating opioid addiction and alcoholism, but none of these are indicated for Acetaminophen overdose.

4. A client has a new prescription for Labetalol. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take this medication at bedtime.
• B. Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication.
• C. Increase your intake of sodium-rich foods.
• D. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client on Labetalol is to avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication. Labetalol is a beta-blocker that, if abruptly stopped, can lead to rebound hypertension and other cardiac issues. It is essential for patients to taper off this medication under medical supervision to prevent adverse effects.

5. A client has a new prescription for Cyclobenzaprine to treat muscle spasms. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this medication.
• B. Take this medication on an empty stomach for best results.
• C. Take this medication only when experiencing muscle pain.
• D. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods while taking this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction that the nurse should include in the teaching for a client prescribed Cyclobenzaprine is to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking this medication. Cyclobenzaprine can cause drowsiness, so it is important to advise clients to avoid activities that require alertness and coordination to prevent accidents or injuries. Choice B is incorrect because Cyclobenzaprine can be taken with or without food. Choice C is incorrect because Cyclobenzaprine is typically taken regularly as prescribed, not just when experiencing muscle pain. Choice D is incorrect because there is no specific need to increase potassium-rich foods while taking Cyclobenzaprine.

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