A client has a new prescription for rituximab. Which of the following findings should the nurse instruct the client to report?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Fever. Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody used to treat conditions like certain types of cancers and autoimmune diseases. One of the potential side effects of rituximab is infusion reactions, which can manifest as fever. By instructing the client to report fever, the nurse can monitor for any serious adverse reactions promptly. Option A) Dizziness is less likely to be directly related to rituximab and is a common side effect of many medications but not a specific concern with this drug. Option C) Urinary frequency is not typically associated with rituximab use and may not be a significant concern in this context. Option D) Dry mouth is also not a common or serious side effect of rituximab, so it is not the priority finding to report. Educationally, understanding the side effects and potential adverse reactions of medications is crucial for nurses to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients. Teaching clients to recognize and report specific symptoms can aid in early detection and management of any complications, thereby improving outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial for nurses to understand the side effects and monitoring parameters associated with specific medications to ensure safe and effective patient care. In this case, the correct answer is A) Hypertension. Bevacizumab is a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor commonly used in cancer treatment. One of the known side effects of bevacizumab is hypertension. VEGF plays a role in regulating blood vessel growth, and inhibiting it can lead to vasoconstriction and subsequent elevation in blood pressure. Option B) Hypokalemia, C) Hyperglycemia, and D) Hypocalcemia are not typically associated with bevacizumab therapy. Understanding these distinctions is crucial for nurses to prioritize monitoring efforts and detect potential adverse effects promptly. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of pharmacological knowledge in nursing practice. Nurses must be able to recognize medication side effects, understand the rationale behind monitoring specific parameters, and intervene appropriately to ensure patient safety and optimal outcomes. By mastering pharmacology concepts, nurses can provide comprehensive care and contribute to positive patient experiences.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Dyspnea. Docetaxel is a chemotherapy medication that can cause serious side effects, including respiratory issues such as dyspnea (difficulty breathing). It is crucial for the nurse to instruct the client to report any signs of respiratory distress promptly, as it could indicate a potentially life-threatening reaction to the medication. A) Flushing is a common side effect of many medications, including docetaxel, but it is usually not considered a serious or urgent issue that requires immediate reporting. C) Hyperglycemia is not a common or expected side effect of docetaxel. While monitoring blood glucose levels is important during treatment, it is not a typical symptom that would warrant immediate reporting. D) Tinnitus (ringing in the ears) is also not a common side effect of docetaxel. While it is important to monitor for hearing changes during chemotherapy, tinnitus is not a prominent side effect associated with this medication. Educationally, understanding the potential side effects of chemotherapy medications like docetaxel is crucial for nurses to ensure patient safety and well-being. Teaching clients to recognize and report serious side effects promptly can help prevent complications and improve outcomes during cancer treatment.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the case of a client receiving treatment with carboplatin, the nurse should primarily monitor for ototoxicity. Carboplatin is known to cause damage to the inner ear, leading to hearing loss or other auditory problems. Monitoring for signs of ototoxicity, such as tinnitus, vertigo, or hearing loss, is crucial to prevent permanent damage and adjust the treatment plan if necessary. Option A, hyperglycemia, is not directly associated with carboplatin use. While some chemotherapeutic agents can lead to metabolic disturbances, carboplatin is not typically linked to hyperglycemia. Option C, hypertension, is also not a common side effect of carboplatin. Hypertension may be a concern with other medications or conditions, but it is not a primary focus when monitoring a client on carboplatin. Option D, bradycardia, is not a typical finding associated with carboplatin. Bradycardia is more commonly linked to certain cardiac medications or conditions and is not a known side effect of carboplatin. Educationally, understanding the side effects and monitoring parameters of chemotherapeutic agents like carboplatin is crucial for nurses caring for oncology patients. By knowing the specific adverse effects of each medication, nurses can provide safe and effective care, promptly identify complications, and collaborate with the healthcare team to optimize patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is crucial to provide accurate instructions to clients starting new medications to ensure optimal outcomes. In the case of Metformin, it is important to take the medication with food to reduce gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhea. Option A, "Take this medication with your first bite of food," is correct because it helps minimize these side effects and ensures better absorption of the drug. Option B, "Take this medication on an empty stomach," is incorrect because taking Metformin without food can lead to increased gastrointestinal side effects and may affect drug absorption. Option C, "Take this medication before bedtime," is also incorrect as there is no specific requirement to take Metformin at bedtime. Option D, "Take this medication every other day," is incorrect as Metformin is typically prescribed for daily use to maintain stable blood levels. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind the timing of medication administration is essential for safe and effective practice. Providing clear instructions to clients promotes medication adherence and reduces the risk of adverse effects. It is important for healthcare providers to stay informed about drug administration guidelines to ensure the best possible outcomes for their clients.