A client is receiving treatment with irinotecan. Which of the following findings should the nurse monitor?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of a client receiving treatment with irinotecan, monitoring for diarrhea is crucial due to the common side effect of irinotecan-induced severe diarrhea. This adverse effect can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and potential complications if not managed promptly. Therefore, Option A, diarrhea, is the correct answer that the nurse should monitor. Hypertension (Option B) is not a typical side effect associated with irinotecan therapy. Ototoxicity (Option C) is more commonly linked to certain antibiotics and chemotherapeutic agents like cisplatin, not irinotecan. Neutropenia (Option D) is a potential side effect of many chemotherapy drugs, but it is not specifically associated with irinotecan. Educationally, understanding the side effects of specific medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Monitoring for and recognizing common adverse effects of chemotherapy drugs like irinotecan can help prevent complications and improve patient outcomes. Nurses need to be knowledgeable about the expected side effects of medications to provide comprehensive care and timely interventions.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Nausea, as a potential sign of Digoxin toxicity. Digoxin is a medication commonly used to treat heart conditions like heart failure and atrial fibrillation. It works by increasing the force of the heart's contractions. However, an overdose or toxicity of Digoxin can lead to various adverse effects, including gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting. Option B) Dry mouth is not typically associated with Digoxin toxicity. Dry mouth is a common side effect of various medications, but it is not a specific indicator of Digoxin toxicity. Option C) Hypoglycemia is not a typical sign of Digoxin toxicity. While Digoxin toxicity can lead to changes in electrolyte levels, hypoglycemia is not a direct effect of Digoxin toxicity. Option D) Tinnitus is a classic sign of Digoxin toxicity. Tinnitus, along with visual disturbances like blurred or yellow vision, are common neurological manifestations of Digoxin toxicity. Educationally, understanding the signs and symptoms of Digoxin toxicity is crucial for nurses and healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to patients taking this medication. Recognition of these signs can prompt timely interventions to prevent serious complications associated with Digoxin toxicity.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Prednisone can cause potassium depletion, so clients should increase their intake of potassium-rich foods such as bananas, oranges, and spinach. Potassium-rich foods help maintain electrolyte balance and prevent complications associated with low potassium levels, such as muscle weakness and irregular heartbeats.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: St. John's wort can reduce the effectiveness of Warfarin by interacting with its metabolism pathways, potentially leading to decreased anticoagulant effects. Therefore, clients on Warfarin therapy should avoid St. John's wort. While echinacea, garlic, and ginseng are also herbal supplements that can interact with Warfarin, St. John's wort is particularly known for its significant impact on Warfarin metabolism.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In pharmacology, understanding the administration instructions for medications is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and avoid potential adverse effects. In the case of Ferrous sulfate, which is an iron supplement commonly prescribed for iron deficiency anemia, the correct instruction is to take it on an empty stomach. The rationale behind taking Ferrous sulfate on an empty stomach is that iron absorption is enhanced in an acidic environment, which is present in the stomach. Food can decrease the absorption of iron, especially if it contains components that bind to iron, such as calcium in dairy products (milk), which is why option A is incorrect. Option C, taking the medication before bedtime, is also not recommended as lying down after taking iron supplements can increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects like nausea and heartburn. Option D, taking the medication with antacids, is incorrect because antacids can reduce the acidity in the stomach, thereby decreasing iron absorption. Educationally, understanding the rationale behind the timing of medication administration is essential for nursing students and healthcare professionals to ensure safe and effective patient care. Providing accurate instructions to patients regarding medication administration can significantly impact treatment outcomes and patient compliance.