A client with chronic heart failure is prescribed spironolactone. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that can lead to an excess of potassium in the body, resulting in hyperkalemia. This side effect is important to monitor in clients taking spironolactone, especially those with chronic heart failure, as hyperkalemia can lead to serious cardiac complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: It is crucial for clients to understand that they should not discontinue escitalopram abruptly, even if they start feeling better. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of depression. It is essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes and prevent potential complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the treatment of bipolar disorder, the correct answer to monitor for when a client is prescribed valproate is weight gain (Option A). Valproate is known to cause weight gain as a potential adverse effect due to its impact on metabolism and appetite regulation. This is an essential monitoring parameter because significant weight gain can lead to other health issues such as metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular complications. Regarding the incorrect options: - Hair loss (Option B) is not a common adverse effect associated with valproate use. - Hyperglycemia (Option C) is not typically caused by valproate; in fact, valproate is more likely to cause side effects such as insulin resistance and potential weight gain. - Hypoglycemia (Option D) is also not a common adverse effect of valproate; instead, valproate is known to potentially lead to hyperglycemia or insulin resistance. In an educational context, understanding the potential adverse effects of medications used in the treatment of psychiatric disorders like bipolar disorder is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers. Monitoring for these adverse effects helps ensure the safety and well-being of the patients. It also highlights the importance of individualized patient care and the need for close monitoring and assessment when administering psychotropic medications like valproate. Nurses should be knowledgeable about the common side effects of psychiatric medications to provide optimal care and improve patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In the case of a client with schizophrenia prescribed aripiprazole, the nurse should monitor for potential side effects like weight gain. Aripiprazole is an atypical antipsychotic medication known to have side effects that include metabolic changes leading to weight gain. This is due to its impact on the body's metabolism and appetite regulation. Dry mouth, headache, and increased appetite are not commonly associated with aripiprazole. Dry mouth is more commonly seen with medications that have anticholinergic effects. Headache can be a general side effect of many medications but is not specifically linked to aripiprazole. Increased appetite is not a typical side effect of aripiprazole, as it tends to have a neutral effect on appetite compared to other antipsychotics. In an educational context, understanding the side effect profile of medications is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care to clients. By knowing the potential side effects of aripiprazole, nurses can monitor and manage these effects to promote the well-being of clients with schizophrenia.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is A) Dry mouth. Salmeterol is a long-acting beta-adrenergic agonist bronchodilator used in the management of COPD. Dry mouth is a common side effect of beta-agonists due to their systemic effects, including decreasing salivary gland secretions. Option B) Tachycardia is incorrect because salmeterol is a long-acting beta-agonist, which has a lower risk of causing tachycardia compared to short-acting beta-agonists. Option C) Insomnia is incorrect because salmeterol, as a bronchodilator, does not typically cause central nervous system side effects like insomnia. Option D) Increased appetite is incorrect because salmeterol is not known to have an effect on appetite. Educationally, it is essential for nurses to understand the common side effects of medications to provide safe and effective care to patients. Monitoring for potential side effects allows for early recognition and intervention, contributing to optimal patient outcomes. Nurses should be knowledgeable about pharmacology to provide holistic care and educate patients on medication management.