the client has been taking divalproex depakote for the management of bipolar disorder the nurse should give priority to monitoring which laboratory te the client has been taking divalproex depakote for the management of bipolar disorder the nurse should give priority to monitoring which laboratory te
Logo

Nursing Elites

NCLEX NCLEX-PN

Kaplan NCLEX Question of The Day

1. The client has been taking divalproex (Depakote) for the management of bipolar disorder. The nurse should give priority to monitoring which laboratory test?

Correct answer: Alanine aminotransferase (ALT)

Rationale: The correct answer is Alanine aminotransferase (ALT). Monitoring ALT levels is crucial when a patient is taking divalproex (Depakote) due to the risk of drug-induced hepatitis. Elevated ALT levels indicate liver damage or disorders, which can be a side effect of Depakote. Serum glucose (choice B) is not the priority for monitoring in this case, as the medication does not directly affect glucose levels. Serum creatinine (choice C) is not the most relevant test to monitor for Depakote use; it primarily assesses kidney function. Serum electrolytes (choice D) are important but do not take precedence over monitoring ALT levels when a patient is on Depakote.

2. A nurse is preparing a female client for a rectal examination. Into which position does the nurse assist the client?

Correct answer: Left lateral

Rationale: For a rectal examination in a female client, the nurse should assist the client into the left lateral position. This position allows easier access to the rectal area, facilitating the examination. The lithotomy position is used for examining the genitalia and rectum in females, not solely for a rectal examination. The standing position is not appropriate for a rectal examination as it does not provide the necessary access. The supine position would hinder the effectiveness of a rectal examination as it does not optimize access to the rectal area.

3. Which of the following medications should be held 24–48 hours prior to an electroencephalogram (EEG)?

Correct answer: Dilantin (phenytoin)

Rationale: Anticonvulsants like Dilantin should be held 24–48 hours before an EEG to prevent interference with the test results. Medications such as tranquilizers, barbiturates, and other sedatives should also be avoided. Lasix, Cardizem, and Lanoxin do not belong to these categories and are not known to interfere with EEG results.

4. A client with cancer is admitted to the oncology unit. Stat lab values reveal Hgb 12.6, WBC 6500, K+ 1.9, uric acid 7.0, Na+ 136, and platelets 178,000. The nurse evaluates that the client is experiencing which of the following?

Correct answer: Hypokalemia

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Hypokalemia.' The potassium level of 1.9 indicates low potassium levels, a condition known as hypokalemia. The other lab values are within normal ranges: Hgb 12.6, WBC 6500, uric acid 7.0, Na+ 136, and platelets 178,000. Hypernatremia (choice A) refers to high sodium levels, which are not present in this case. Myelosuppression (choice C) is a decrease in bone marrow activity, which is not indicated by the lab values provided. Leukocytosis (choice D) is an increase in white blood cells, which is also not present based on the given values.

5. When a client who is having trouble conceiving says to the nurse, 'I have started taking ginseng,' the best response by the nurse is:

Correct answer: “Some studies show that ginseng enhances in vitro sperm motility.”

Rationale: Some studies have shown that ginseng enhances in vitro sperm motility, making Choice B the correct response. It directly addresses the client’s comments about taking ginseng and provides valuable information regarding its potential effect on sperm motility. Alternative therapies are often sought by couples struggling with infertility, and acknowledging the potential benefits of ginseng can empower the client. Choice A is incorrect as it slightly misrepresents the evidence by overgeneralizing its effectiveness. Choice C dismisses ginseng without acknowledging its potential benefits, potentially closing off a fruitful discussion with the client. Choice D, while neutral, misses the opportunity to validate the client's choice and explore further options collaboratively. It is crucial for nurses to respect clients' choices, provide accurate information, and guide them effectively in exploring different alternatives.

Similar Questions

Which of the following conditions has a severe complication of respiratory failure?
A client with a left arm fracture complains of severe diffuse pain that is unrelieved by pain medication. On further assessment, the nurse notes that the client experiences increased pain during passive motion compared with active motion of the left arm. Based on these assessment findings, which action should the nurse take first?
A nurse is assisting with data collection regarding skin and peripheral vascular findings on a client in later adulthood. Which observation would the nurse expect to note as an age-related finding?
Which of the following ethnic groups is at highest risk in the United States for pesticide-related injuries?
The LPN needs to delegate a task to the nurse aide who is new to the unit. Which of these is the best option for the nurse to choose in proceeding?

Access More Features

NCLEX Basic

  • 5,000 Questions with answers
  • Comprehensive NCLEX coverage
  • 30 days access @ $69.99

NCLEX Basic

  • 5,000 Questions and answers
  • Comprehensive NCLEX Coverage
  • 90 days access @ $69.99