A healthcare professional is caring for a client who is receiving heparin therapy. Which of the following laboratory tests should the healthcare professional monitor to evaluate the therapeutic effect of heparin?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct test to monitor the therapeutic effect of heparin is the activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT). Heparin's action is to prolong the clotting time, and aPTT reflects this effect. Monitoring aPTT helps ensure that the client is within the therapeutic range to prevent clot formation while minimizing the risk of bleeding complications. PT/INR is used to monitor warfarin therapy, platelet count assesses for potential thrombocytopenia, and WBC count evaluates for signs of infection or inflammation, not the therapeutic effect of heparin.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, option B is the correct answer: "I will inform my doctor if I experience diarrhea." This statement indicates that the client understands the importance of monitoring and reporting a common side effect of Tetracycline, which is diarrhea. Option A is incorrect because taking Tetracycline with milk can decrease its absorption due to chelation, making the medication less effective. Option C is incorrect because discontinuing the medication prematurely can lead to treatment failure and potential development of antibiotic resistance. Option D is incorrect because Tetracycline should not be taken just before bedtime as lying down after taking it can increase the risk of esophageal irritation and ulceration. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of patient education regarding medication administration and side effect monitoring. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to ensure that patients comprehend instructions correctly to achieve optimal treatment outcomes and prevent potential complications. This case also underscores the significance of healthcare providers' role in promoting medication safety and adherence through effective patient teaching.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is B) Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6). Isoniazid (INH), commonly used to treat tuberculosis, can lead to peripheral neuropathy as a side effect due to its ability to deplete pyridoxine levels in the body. Pyridoxine supplementation helps prevent or alleviate this adverse effect by supporting nerve function. Option A) Ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) is not directly related to preventing INH side effects. Option C) Folic acid (Vitamin B9) is essential for cell growth but is not specifically indicated for INH therapy. Option D) Cyanocobalamin (Vitamin B12) is important for nerve function but is not the primary vitamin depleted by INH. Educationally, understanding the relationship between drug therapy and vitamin deficiencies is crucial for nurses to provide safe and effective care. Knowing which supplements to administer in conjunction with certain medications can mitigate potential adverse effects and improve patient outcomes. This knowledge underscores the importance of pharmacological principles in nursing practice.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: When administering IV Acyclovir to a client with Varicella, the nurse should infuse the medication over at least 1 hour to prevent nephrotoxicity. Rapid infusion can lead to adverse effects such as renal damage. Therefore, it is crucial to follow the recommended infusion rate to ensure the client's safety and well-being.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the use of Maraviroc to treat HIV infection, monitoring for severe allergic reactions is crucial. Maraviroc is known to potentially cause hypersensitivity reactions, ranging from mild rash to severe anaphylaxis. Monitoring for these reactions is essential to prevent serious outcomes and provide timely intervention. The other options, such as liver failure, kidney failure, and pancreatitis, while potential adverse effects of some medications, are not typically associated with Maraviroc use. Understanding the specific adverse reaction profile of each drug is essential for healthcare providers to ensure appropriate monitoring and management strategies are in place. In an educational context, this question highlights the importance of pharmacovigilance and individual drug profiles. It emphasizes the need for healthcare providers to be knowledgeable about the adverse effects of specific medications to provide safe and effective care to their patients. By understanding the unique adverse reaction profile of each drug, healthcare providers can tailor their monitoring practices and interventions to optimize patient outcomes.