A client is starting therapy with cisplatin. The healthcare provider should instruct the client to report which of the following adverse effects?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Tinnitus. When a client is starting therapy with cisplatin, it is crucial to monitor for tinnitus as it is an early sign of ototoxicity associated with this medication. Cisplatin is known to cause damage to the inner ear structures, leading to hearing loss and tinnitus. Option B) Nausea is a common side effect of cisplatin, but it is not specific to ototoxicity. Nausea is typically managed with antiemetic medications. Option C) Constipation is not directly related to cisplatin therapy. Constipation is more often associated with opioid use or certain dietary factors. Option D) Weight gain is also not a common adverse effect of cisplatin. Clients may experience weight loss due to nausea and appetite changes associated with the medication. Educationally, understanding the specific adverse effects of medications is crucial for safe and effective nursing practice. Teaching clients about potential side effects empowers them to recognize and report symptoms promptly, leading to timely intervention and improved outcomes. Healthcare providers should emphasize the importance of reporting any new or worsening symptoms while taking cisplatin to prevent irreversible complications such as hearing loss.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Neutropenia. When a client with chronic myeloid leukemia is receiving hydroxyurea, the nurse should monitor for neutropenia due to the drug's myelosuppressive effects. Hydroxyurea works by inhibiting DNA synthesis, which can lead to a decrease in neutrophil production and an increased risk of infection. Option A) Hyperkalemia is incorrect because hydroxyurea does not typically cause hyperkalemia. Option B) Hypertension is also incorrect as it is not a common side effect of hydroxyurea. Option D) Tinnitus is not associated with hydroxyurea use and is an unrelated finding. Educationally, understanding the side effects of medications is crucial in providing safe and effective care to patients. By monitoring for potential adverse effects like neutropenia in this case, nurses can intervene early to prevent complications and ensure optimal patient outcomes. It is essential to have a strong pharmacological knowledge base to make informed clinical decisions and provide quality care to patients receiving various medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Neutropenia. Paclitaxel is a chemotherapy medication known to cause bone marrow suppression, specifically decreasing neutrophil counts. Neutropenia increases the client's risk of infections, making it a crucial adverse effect to monitor during therapy. Option A) Bradycardia is not typically associated with paclitaxel therapy. Diarrhea (Option B) and urinary retention (Option D) can occur as side effects of other medications, but they are not commonly linked to paclitaxel use. From an educational standpoint, understanding the adverse effects of specific medications is essential for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Teaching clients about potential side effects empowers them to monitor their health and report any concerning symptoms promptly. This case emphasizes the importance of recognizing chemotherapy-related adverse effects to optimize patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential side effects and adverse reactions associated with specific medications. In this case, the correct answer is A) Hypotension when monitoring a client receiving etoposide. Etoposide is a chemotherapy drug known to cause hypotension as a common side effect. As a nurse, monitoring the client for signs of hypotension such as dizziness, weakness, or a drop in blood pressure is essential to prevent any complications. Option B) Hyperkalemia is not typically associated with etoposide therapy, so it is an incorrect choice. Hyperglycemia, option C, is also not a common side effect of etoposide. Option D) Hypertension is not a typical finding with etoposide treatment, making it an incorrect answer. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding specific medication side effects and the need for vigilant monitoring to ensure patient safety. By knowing the expected findings related to a drug like etoposide, nurses can provide effective care and intervene promptly if any adverse reactions occur.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) Take this medication on an empty stomach. Levothyroxine is a thyroid hormone replacement medication that should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably 30 minutes to 1 hour before breakfast, to ensure optimal absorption. Food can interfere with the absorption of Levothyroxine, reducing its effectiveness. Taking it with food, at bedtime, or with antacids can all decrease the absorption of the medication and lead to suboptimal treatment outcomes for the client. Educational Context: Understanding the administration instructions for medications is crucial in pharmacology to ensure their therapeutic effectiveness. In the case of Levothyroxine, proper administration can significantly impact a patient's thyroid hormone levels and overall health. Educating patients on the importance of following specific instructions for each medication is a key role of the nurse to promote patient safety and optimal treatment outcomes.