Nursing Elites

1. A client with Crohn's disease is scheduled to receive an infusion of infliximab (Remicade). The nurse assisting in caring for the client should take which action to monitor the effectiveness of treatment?

• A. Monitoring the leukocyte count for 2 days after the infusion
• B. Checking the frequency and consistency of bowel movements
• C. Checking serum liver enzyme levels before and after the infusion
• D. Carrying out a Hematest on gastric fluids after the infusion is completed

Correct answer: B

Rationale: To monitor the effectiveness of infliximab (Remicade) treatment in a client with Crohn's disease, the nurse should observe the frequency and consistency of bowel movements. Infliximab is an immunomodulator that works to reduce inflammation in the colon, leading to improvements in bowel symptoms such as frequency and consistency. Monitoring these bowel patterns can provide valuable insight into the response to the medication and the overall management of Crohn's disease. Checking the leukocyte count (Choice A) is not specific to monitoring the effectiveness of infliximab for Crohn's disease. Checking serum liver enzyme levels (Choice C) may be important for liver function but does not directly monitor the effectiveness of infliximab. Carrying out a Hematest on gastric fluids (Choice D) is not relevant to monitoring the effectiveness of infliximab in Crohn's disease.

2. A client has a prescription to take guaifenesin (Humibid) every 4 hours, as needed. The nurse determines that the client understands the most effective use of this medication if the client states that he or she will:

• A. Watch for irritability as a side effect.
• B. Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
• C. Take an extra dose if the cough is accompanied by fever.
• D. Crush the sustained-release tablet if immediate relief is needed.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to help loosen mucus and make coughs more productive. Taking it with a full glass of water helps decrease the viscosity of secretions, making it easier to expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is important not to crush sustained-release tablets, as this can alter the intended release of the medication and lead to potential adverse effects.

3. Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is prescribed for a client with pain. Which of the following would the nurse monitor for as a side effect of this medication?

• A. Diarrhea
• B. Bradycardia
• C. Hypertension
• D. Urinary retention

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Meperidine hydrochloride (Demerol) is an opioid analgesic that can cause various side effects. Common side effects include respiratory depression, orthostatic hypotension, tachycardia, drowsiness, constipation, and urinary retention. Diarrhea is not a common side effect of Meperidine hydrochloride. Bradycardia and hypertension are not typically associated with this medication. Therefore, the nurse should monitor for urinary retention as a potential side effect of Meperidine hydrochloride.

4. When is the best time for a client to take a daily dose of prednisone?

• A. At noon
• B. At bedtime
• C. Early morning
• D. Anytime, at the same time each day

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct time for a client to take a daily dose of prednisone is early morning. Corticosteroids like prednisone should be taken in the morning to mimic the body's natural hormone release pattern. This timing helps reduce the risk of disrupting the body's internal clock and minimizes the potential for insomnia or other sleep disturbances.

5. A client is receiving intravenous heparin for a deep vein thrombosis. The healthcare provider should monitor the client for which of the following potential complications?

• A. Hypertension
• B. Tachycardia
• C. Bleeding
• D. Hyperkalemia

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Heparin is an anticoagulant, so the primary potential complication is bleeding. The healthcare provider should monitor the client for signs of bleeding, such as bruising, hematuria, and gastrointestinal bleeding. Hypertension, tachycardia, and hyperkalemia are not direct complications of heparin therapy. Therefore, the correct answer is bleeding, as it is the most significant risk associated with heparin administration.

Similar Questions