A client has a new prescription for Prednisone. Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored by the healthcare provider?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, especially with the prescription of Prednisone, monitoring serum glucose levels is crucial. Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can lead to hyperglycemia by increasing blood glucose levels. Monitoring serum glucose levels is essential to detect and manage any potential hyperglycemia in patients taking Prednisone. Serum potassium, calcium, and sodium levels are not typically affected by Prednisone in the same way as glucose. While alterations in electrolyte levels can occur with certain medications, Prednisone's primary concern lies with glucose metabolism. It is important for healthcare providers to understand the specific monitoring requirements for each medication to ensure patient safety and optimal therapeutic outcomes. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of understanding the side effects and monitoring parameters associated with specific medications. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to be vigilant in monitoring patients for potential adverse effects and taking proactive measures to address them. This knowledge is essential for safe medication administration and patient care in pharmacology practice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is option C: "I will apply the patch to an area of skin with no hair." This statement indicates that the client understands the instructions for applying transdermal patches correctly. This is the correct answer because applying the patch to an area of skin without hair helps ensure proper adhesion and absorption of the medication. Hair can interfere with the patch's ability to adhere securely to the skin and deliver the medication effectively. Option A is incorrect because cleaning the site with an alcohol swab before applying the patch is a good practice, but it is not the best indicator of understanding the instructions. Option B is incorrect because rotating the application sites weekly is important to prevent skin irritation and ensure consistent drug absorption, but it does not specifically demonstrate understanding of the instructions. Option D is incorrect because placing the new patch where the old patch was is not recommended as it can lead to skin irritation and uneven absorption of the medication. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to educate clients on the proper administration of transdermal patches to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and minimize potential adverse effects. Proper site selection, preparation, and rotation are crucial aspects of transdermal patch administration that nurses should emphasize to clients.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this pharmacology scenario, the correct answer is A) 22 gtt/min. To understand why this is the right choice, we need to calculate the infusion rate based on the information provided. First, we know that the total volume to be infused is 100 mL over 45 minutes. To find the rate in mL/min, we divide 100 mL by 45 minutes, which equals approximately 2.22 mL/min. Next, we need to convert mL/min to drops per minute (gtt/min) using the drop factor of 10 gtt/mL. By multiplying 2.22 mL/min by 10 gtt/mL, we get 22.2 gtt/min, which can be rounded down to 22 gtt/min since we can't administer a fraction of a drop. Now, let's discuss why the other options are incorrect: - B) 24 gtt/min: This option is close to the correct answer but is slightly higher due to a potential miscalculation or rounding error. - C) 20 gtt/min: This option is lower than the correct answer and would result in a slower infusion rate, potentially affecting the therapeutic effect of the medication. - D) 18 gtt/min: This option is significantly lower than the correct answer and would lead to an even slower infusion rate, which could be inadequate for the intended treatment. Educationally, understanding how to calculate infusion rates accurately is crucial for healthcare professionals to ensure the safe and effective administration of medications. Mastering these calculations helps prevent medication errors and ensures optimal patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this pharmacology question, the correct answer is A) 0.8 mL. To determine this, the healthcare professional needs to calculate the volume of heparin needed to administer 15,000 units, knowing that the concentration is 20,000 units/mL. The correct calculation is: 15,000 units ÷ 20,000 units/mL = 0.75 mL However, since the available concentration is 20,000 units/mL, the healthcare professional needs to round up to the nearest available volume increment, which is 0.8 mL in this case. Option B) 0.75 mL is the calculated exact volume needed, but in practice, it should be rounded up to ensure the full dose is administered. Option C) 0.5 mL is too low and would not provide the required dose. Option D) 1 mL is too high and would result in administering more heparin than necessary, potentially leading to adverse effects. Understanding dosage calculations is crucial in pharmacology to ensure accurate medication administration and patient safety. Healthcare professionals must be proficient in these calculations to provide effective care to patients.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The nurse should withhold the medication and inform the provider of the client's previous rash after taking penicillin. This history suggests a potential allergic reaction to penicillin, which can range from mild to severe anaphylaxis. Notifying the provider allows for an alternative antibiotic to be prescribed, considering the client's allergy to penicillin. It is crucial to avoid administering a medication that could potentially lead to a severe allergic reaction in the client.