a nurse is caring for a client who is taking spironolactone which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse monitor and report to the pro

ATI RN

ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam 2019

1. A client is prescribed Spironolactone. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse monitor and report to the provider?

A. Sodium level of 138 mEq/L
B. Potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L
C. Chloride level of 100 mEq/L
D. Calcium level of 9.5 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, causing potassium retention, potentially leading to elevated potassium levels. A potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), indicating hyperkalemia, a serious condition. Elevated potassium levels can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring and reporting high potassium levels promptly to the healthcare provider are crucial to prevent potential complications. Sodium, chloride, and calcium levels are not directly influenced by Spironolactone, making choices A, C, and D incorrect.

2. What is one of the therapeutic uses of Valproate?

A. Suppression of seizure activity
B. Replacement of hypothyroidism to restore normal hormone balance
C. Maintenance of blood glucose
D. Lowering of blood pressure

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Valproate, also known as Valproic acid, is commonly used in medicine for the suppression of seizure activity. It is an anticonvulsant medication that helps manage and prevent seizures in various conditions such as epilepsy. While it is not used for replacing hypothyroidism, maintaining blood glucose levels, or lowering blood pressure, its primary therapeutic use is in managing seizures.

3. A nurse is providing discharge instructions for a client who has a new prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Take the medication before bed.
B. Monitor for increased blood pressure.
C. Take the medication on an empty stomach.
D. Monitor for leg cramps.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D: 'Monitor for leg cramps.' Leg cramps may indicate hypokalemia, an adverse effect of hydrochlorothiazide, and should be reported to the provider. Choice A is incorrect because hydrochlorothiazide is usually taken in the morning to avoid nocturia. Choice B is incorrect as hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps lower blood pressure. Choice C is incorrect as hydrochlorothiazide can be taken with or without food.

4. A client has a prescription for Timolol eye drops for the treatment of glaucoma. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Apply gentle pressure to the nasolacrimal duct for 30 to 60 seconds after application.
B. Avoid blinking immediately after instilling the drops.
C. Keep your eyes closed for 5 minutes after application.
D. Administer the drops directly onto the cornea.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include is to apply gentle pressure to the nasolacrimal duct for 30 to 60 seconds after application. This technique helps prevent systemic absorption of the medication, reducing the risk of systemic side effects. By applying pressure, the drainage of the medication into the bloodstream through the nasolacrimal duct is minimized, enhancing the drug's local ocular effects. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because blinking immediately after instilling the drops, keeping eyes closed for 5 minutes, and administering the drops directly onto the cornea are not recommended practices for administering Timolol eye drops.

5. What is the antidote for Warfarin?

A. Naloxone
B. Vitamin K
C. Glucagon
D. Vitamin B

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct antidote for Warfarin is Vitamin K. Warfarin works by inhibiting vitamin K-dependent clotting factors. Administering Vitamin K helps reverse its effects by replenishing these factors. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Naloxone is used to reverse opioid overdose, Glucagon is used to treat severe low blood sugar, and Vitamin B is not the antidote for Warfarin.