A client with a diagnosis of generalized anxiety disorder is prescribed alprazolam. The nurse should instruct the client that this medication may have which potential side effect?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In pharmacology, it is essential for nurses to understand the potential side effects of medications to ensure patient safety. In the case of alprazolam, a medication commonly used to treat anxiety disorders, the correct potential side effect is drowsiness (Option A). Alprazolam belongs to a class of drugs known as benzodiazepines, which are central nervous system depressants. Drowsiness is a common side effect of benzodiazepines due to their sedative properties. Dry mouth (Option B), nausea (Option C), and headache (Option D) are less likely to be directly related to alprazolam use. While medications can affect individuals differently, these side effects are not typically associated with alprazolam specifically. Educationally, understanding the side effects of medications enables nurses to monitor patients effectively, anticipate potential complications, and provide appropriate patient education. By knowing that drowsiness is a common side effect of alprazolam, nurses can advise patients to avoid activities requiring alertness until they know how the medication affects them and to report excessive drowsiness to their healthcare provider. This knowledge enhances patient safety and contributes to quality care delivery.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is option A) Constipation. Verapamil is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to manage atrial fibrillation. Constipation is a potential side effect of verapamil due to its mechanism of action in slowing down gut motility. Option B) Diarrhea is incorrect because verapamil typically causes constipation rather than diarrhea. Option C) Headache is less likely to be associated with verapamil use compared to constipation. Option D) Hypotension is a common side effect of calcium channel blockers like verapamil, but in this case, constipation is the more specific side effect to monitor for. Educationally, understanding the side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Monitoring for potential side effects ensures early detection and intervention, thus preventing complications for the patient. This question highlights the importance of pharmacological knowledge and the need for vigilant assessment in clinical practice.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Weight gain. When a client is prescribed lurasidone, monitoring for weight gain is essential as lurasidone can cause this side effect. Patients on lurasidone should have their weight monitored regularly to detect any changes that may occur. Options B, C, and D are not typically associated with lurasidone use, making them less likely to be a direct side effect of this medication.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Diarrhea. Sucroferric oxyhydroxide is a phosphate binder commonly prescribed to patients with chronic kidney disease to help control their phosphate levels. One of the common side effects of this medication is diarrhea. To understand why the other options are incorrect: - Option B) Constipation is less likely because phosphate binders like sucroferric oxyhydroxide typically lead to loose stools or diarrhea rather than constipation. - Option C) Nausea is a possible side effect of sucroferric oxyhydroxide, but diarrhea is a more common adverse effect. - Option D) Hyperphosphatemia is the condition that sucroferric oxyhydroxide is used to treat, not a side effect of the medication itself. Educational Context: Understanding the side effects of medications is crucial for nurses caring for patients with chronic kidney disease or other conditions requiring complex medication regimens. Monitoring for potential side effects allows for early intervention and improved patient outcomes. Nurses must be knowledgeable about the medications their patients are taking to provide safe and effective care.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed adalimumab, which is an immunosuppressant medication, is to avoid live vaccines. Adalimumab can weaken the immune system, making live vaccines potentially harmful. It is essential to educate the client on this to prevent complications and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.