A client with a history of stroke is prescribed dabigatran. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is C) Headache. Dabigatran is an anticoagulant medication that works by preventing blood clots. One potential side effect of anticoagulants like dabigatran is headache, which can occur due to changes in blood flow and circulation. Option A) Dry mouth is not typically associated with dabigatran or anticoagulant use. Dry mouth is more commonly linked to medications with anticholinergic effects. Option B) Weight gain is not a common side effect of dabigatran. In fact, anticoagulants like dabigatran are not known to directly cause weight gain. Option D) Dizziness is not a typical side effect of dabigatran. Dizziness may be more commonly associated with other medications or conditions, but it is not a primary concern with dabigatran use. Educationally, understanding the side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Monitoring for potential side effects like headache in a patient taking dabigatran can help prevent complications and ensure the patient's well-being. Nurses must be knowledgeable about pharmacology to assess, intervene, and educate patients on their medications effectively.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Drowsiness. Paroxetine, used for generalized anxiety disorder, can cause drowsiness. Clients should be advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery until they know how the medication affects them. Dry mouth, nausea, and headache are potential side effects of other medications but are not commonly associated with paroxetine.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Bradycardia. Digoxin is a medication commonly used in the management of heart failure due to its positive inotropic effects, which help improve cardiac function. However, one of the potential side effects of digoxin is bradycardia, which is characterized by a slow heart rate. This occurs because digoxin can enhance the parasympathetic (vagal) tone, leading to a decrease in heart rate. Option B) Tachycardia is incorrect because digoxin typically does not cause an increase in heart rate. Options C) Hypertension and D) Hypotension are also incorrect as digoxin's primary effects are on the heart's contractility and not on blood pressure regulation. Educationally, it is crucial for nurses to understand the potential side effects of medications like digoxin to effectively monitor and manage patients receiving these drugs. By recognizing the side effect of bradycardia associated with digoxin, nurses can intervene promptly, assess the patient's condition, and collaborate with the healthcare team to adjust the medication dosage or consider alternative treatments if necessary.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Report any signs of vision changes to the healthcare provider. This instruction is crucial because hydroxychloroquine, commonly used in rheumatoid arthritis, can have potential ocular side effects, such as retinopathy. Regular ophthalmologic evaluations are necessary to monitor for these changes and prevent permanent vision damage. Option A (Avoid sunlight exposure while taking this medication) is incorrect for hydroxychloroquine. While photosensitivity can occur with some medications, it is not a significant concern with this drug. Option B (Take this medication with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset) is not directly related to hydroxychloroquine's specific side effects or administration requirements. It is a general instruction for some medications but not for hydroxychloroquine. Option C (Report any signs of infection to the healthcare provider) is important in general, but it is not directly related to hydroxychloroquine specifically. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis are at an increased risk of infections due to their condition and immunosuppressive medications, but this is not a direct effect of hydroxychloroquine. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of medication-specific teaching points for patients. It underscores the need for nurses to provide detailed and accurate information to ensure patient safety and adherence to treatment plans. Understanding the rationale behind each answer option enhances a nurse's ability to educate patients effectively and promote optimal outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is A) Pulmonary toxicity. Amiodarone is known to cause pulmonary toxicity, which can manifest as pulmonary fibrosis, pneumonitis, or acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Monitoring for signs such as cough, dyspnea, and crackles on lung auscultation is crucial as early detection can prevent severe respiratory complications. Option B) Liver toxicity is a potential side effect of amiodarone, but pulmonary toxicity is more common and requires closer monitoring due to its serious implications. Option C) Thyroid dysfunction is another side effect of amiodarone, particularly hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, but it is not the most immediate concern compared to pulmonary toxicity in this scenario. Option D) Bradycardia is not a common side effect of amiodarone; in fact, it is more likely to cause bradycardia than tachycardia. Educational Context: Understanding the potential side effects of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. In the case of amiodarone, being vigilant for pulmonary toxicity is essential due to its serious consequences. Nurses should educate patients on the signs and symptoms to report and collaborate with healthcare providers to ensure timely interventions if adverse effects occur. Regular monitoring and assessment are key components of safe medication administration and patient care in pharmacology.