A client has a new prescription for Valproic Acid. The client should be informed that which of the following laboratory tests need to be completed periodically? (Select all that apply.)

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Valproic acid can lead to thrombocytopenia, making it essential to monitor the client's thrombocyte count periodically. Additionally, valproic acid can cause pancreatitis, necessitating the monitoring of amylase levels. Furthermore, valproic acid carries a risk of hepatotoxicity, requiring regular monitoring of liver function tests.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Hyperglycemia. Somatropin is a synthetic form of human growth hormone that can lead to increased blood sugar levels by decreasing insulin sensitivity. It is crucial for the client to monitor for signs of hyperglycemia such as increased thirst, urination, and fatigue. Option B) Bradycardia is incorrect because Somatropin is not known to cause a slowing of heart rate; in fact, it can sometimes lead to palpitations due to its effects on the cardiovascular system. Option C) Urinary frequency is also incorrect as somatropin typically does not directly impact urinary patterns. Option D) Edema is not a common adverse effect of somatropin. Edema is more commonly associated with conditions like heart failure or kidney disease. In an educational context, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Monitoring for these adverse effects can help prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. Pharmacology knowledge empowers healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding medication administration and patient monitoring.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the correct laboratory test to monitor while a client is receiving Heparin. This test is used to assess the therapeutic levels of heparin in the blood, ensuring that the dose is within the safe and effective range. Monitoring aPTT helps healthcare providers adjust the dosage of Heparin to prevent complications such as bleeding or clotting.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Avoid salt substitutes. The rationale behind this is that Captopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, which can lead to an increase in potassium levels in the body. Salt substitutes often contain potassium chloride, so consuming them along with Captopril can result in hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood and can be harmful. Option A) Take the medication with food is incorrect because Captopril is typically taken on an empty stomach for optimal absorption. Option C) Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods is also incorrect because as mentioned earlier, Captopril can already elevate potassium levels, so increasing potassium-rich foods can further exacerbate this. Option D) Expect a dry cough to develop is a common side effect of ACE inhibitors like Captopril but is not a crucial instruction that the nurse needs to emphasize regarding the medication. In an educational context, it's essential for nurses to understand the specific instructions related to medications to ensure patient safety and efficacy of treatment. By knowing the potential interactions and side effects of medications like Captopril, nurses can provide accurate information to patients to promote adherence and prevent complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Wait 5 minutes between medications if two inhaled medications are prescribed. This instruction is crucial because Ipratropium is an anticholinergic bronchodilator that helps to open the airways, and spacing it out from other inhaled medications prevents potential drug interactions or reduced effectiveness. Option A) This medication can be used as a rescue inhaler is incorrect because Ipratropium is not typically used for acute symptom relief like a rescue inhaler such as albuterol. Option B) This medication should be taken before albuterol is incorrect because there is no specific requirement for the order of administration between Ipratropium and albuterol. Option D) Ipratropium can be used before exercise is incorrect as Ipratropium is not indicated for use specifically before exercise. In an educational context, it is essential for nurses to provide accurate and detailed instructions to clients when introducing a new medication to ensure its safe and effective use. Understanding the proper administration, timing, and potential interactions of medications like Ipratropium can significantly impact patient outcomes and adherence to therapy.