Nursing Elites

1. A client with a history of seizures is prescribed valproic acid. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?

• A. Liver toxicity
• B. Kidney stones
• C. Weight gain
• D. Pancreatitis

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Valproic acid is known to cause liver toxicity as a potential adverse effect. Regular monitoring of liver function tests is crucial to detect any signs of liver damage early on and prevent serious complications. Kidney stones, weight gain, and pancreatitis are not typically associated with valproic acid use, making them incorrect choices in this scenario.

2. A client is receiving levothyroxine for hypothyroidism. The nurse should monitor the client for which potential side effect?

• A. Weight gain
• B. Dry skin
• C. Hair loss
• D. Hyperthermia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Levothyroxine is a medication used to treat hypothyroidism by supplementing the body with thyroid hormone. If the dosage of levothyroxine is too high, it can cause symptoms of hyperthyroidism, including weight loss. Therefore, weight gain can be a potential side effect of levothyroxine if the dosage is excessive.

3. A client is prescribed methylprednisolone for an allergic reaction. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect of this medication?

• A. Nausea and vomiting
• B. Weight gain
• C. Insomnia
• D. Increased appetite

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is prescribed methylprednisolone, a corticosteroid, the nurse should monitor for weight gain as a potential side effect. Corticosteroids like methylprednisolone can cause weight gain and fluid retention due to their impact on metabolism and sodium retention. Nausea and vomiting are less common side effects of methylprednisolone. Insomnia and increased appetite are not typically associated with methylprednisolone use.

4. During a home visit, a client with a history of angina reports frequent headaches. The client recently started a new prescription for diltiazem, a calcium channel blocker. What action should the nurse take?

• A. Explain the importance of obtaining a blood sample promptly to test for medication toxicity
• B. Consult with the healthcare provider regarding the necessity of an opioid analgesic for pain relief
• C. Recommend the client to discontinue the medication until contacting the healthcare provider
• D. Instruct the client on the use of acetaminophen every 4-6 hours as needed for headaches

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take is to instruct the client to use acetaminophen for headaches. Acetaminophen is a suitable and safer option for managing headaches associated with calcium channel blockers like diltiazem. It is essential to avoid medications that can interact negatively with diltiazem, such as opioid analgesics. Discontinuing the medication abruptly without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended. Monitoring for medication toxicity through blood samples is not typically indicated for managing headaches in this scenario.

5. A client with a history of atrial fibrillation is prescribed verapamil. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?

• A. Constipation
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Headache
• D. Hypotension

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Verapamil, a calcium channel blocker, can commonly cause constipation due to its effects on smooth muscle relaxation in the gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, monitoring for constipation is important when a client is prescribed verapamil.

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