A client has a new prescription for Enalapril. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential adverse effects of medications to provide safe and effective care to their patients. In the case of Enalapril, a common adverse effect to monitor for is a dry cough. Enalapril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, and dry cough is a well-known side effect of this class of medications. It occurs due to the accumulation of bradykinin, a substance that causes irritation in the airways. Weight gain, diarrhea, and nausea are not typically associated with Enalapril use. Weight gain is not a common side effect of ACE inhibitors; in fact, they are more likely to cause weight loss. Diarrhea and nausea are also not commonly linked to Enalapril use. Understanding these specific adverse effects helps nurses differentiate and identify potential complications related to medication therapy. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of pharmacological knowledge in nursing practice. Nurses must be able to recognize common adverse effects of medications to provide comprehensive care, monitor for complications, and intervene promptly to ensure patient safety and well-being. This reinforces the need for ongoing education and training in pharmacology to enhance nursing proficiency in medication management.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In caring for a client prescribed Metformin, monitoring serum creatinine levels is crucial to assess for potential adverse effects. Metformin is primarily excreted by the kidneys, and impaired renal function can lead to the accumulation of the drug, increasing the risk of lactic acidosis. Monitoring serum creatinine helps to evaluate renal function and adjust the dosage of Metformin accordingly. The other options are not the primary laboratory values to monitor for Metformin therapy. Blood glucose monitoring is essential for assessing diabetes control but is not specific to Metformin adverse effects. Creatine kinase is more relevant for assessing muscle damage, not directly related to Metformin. Hemoglobin A1c reflects long-term glucose control, not Metformin-related adverse effects. In an educational context, understanding the rationale behind monitoring specific laboratory values for medications like Metformin is vital for healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective patient care. Emphasizing the importance of individualizing care based on patient factors like renal function can prevent serious complications in pharmacological management.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to avoid salt substitutes. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, can lead to hyperkalemia, so it is essential to avoid salt substitutes containing potassium, which can further increase potassium levels in the body. This instruction aims to prevent potential adverse effects and ensure the client's safety while taking Lisinopril.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of a client prescribed Prednisone, the correct dietary instruction to include is to "increase your intake of potassium-rich foods." Prednisone is a corticosteroid medication that can lead to potassium loss through increased urine production. By increasing potassium-rich foods intake, the client can help prevent hypokalemia, a potential side effect of Prednisone therapy. Option B, "increase your intake of dairy products," is incorrect because while dairy products are a good source of calcium, they do not specifically address the potassium loss associated with Prednisone use. Option C, "avoid foods high in vitamin K," is incorrect because vitamin K is not directly related to Prednisone therapy. Vitamin K is more commonly associated with medications like warfarin due to its role in blood clotting. Option D, "decrease your intake of protein," is incorrect because protein intake is important for overall health and not specifically contraindicated with Prednisone use. In an educational context, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential side effects of medications like Prednisone and how to provide appropriate dietary instructions to mitigate these effects. By explaining the rationale behind dietary recommendations, nurses can empower clients to manage their medication therapy effectively and promote better health outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: To verify the trough levels of a medication accurately, the nurse should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of the medication. The trough level represents the lowest concentration of the medication in the bloodstream, typically right before the next dose is due. This timing ensures an accurate assessment of the drug's concentration in the body at its lowest point, aiding in determining the drug's effectiveness and potential toxicity levels.