A healthcare professional is preparing to administer verapamil by IV bolus to a client who is experiencing cardiac dysrhythmias. For which of the following adverse effects should the healthcare professional monitor when giving this medication?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Verapamil is known to cause hypotension as one of its adverse effects due to its vasodilatory properties. Therefore, it is essential for the healthcare professional to monitor the client's blood pressure closely during and after administration to prevent complications such as severe hypotension. Hyperthermia, ototoxicity, and muscle pain are not commonly associated with verapamil administration, making choices A, C, and D incorrect.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, option D "I feel nauseated and have no appetite" indicates an adverse effect of digoxin. Digoxin can cause gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea and decreased appetite, which are signs of toxicity. These symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider as they can lead to serious complications. Option A, "I can walk a mile a day," is not indicative of an adverse effect of digoxin. It may actually suggest an improvement in the client's condition due to the medication's positive effects on heart function. Option B, "I've had a backache for several days," is not typically associated with digoxin use. Backache is not a common side effect of digoxin and would not be a primary concern in this case. Option C, "I am urinating more frequently," is also not a typical adverse effect of digoxin. Increased urination is not a common side effect of digoxin and would not be directly related to its use in treating heart failure. Educationally, it is crucial for students to understand the common side effects and adverse reactions of medications used in specific conditions like heart failure. Recognizing and differentiating between expected outcomes and potential adverse effects is essential for safe medication administration and patient care. This question reinforces the importance of monitoring for and reporting adverse effects promptly to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for taking alendronate is to take it with a full glass of water after rising in the morning to prevent esophageal irritation. It is important to remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. Taking the medication with a meal or crushing the tablet are not recommended instructions for alendronate administration. Choice A is the correct answer as it aligns with the proper administration guidelines for alendronate.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Lactulose is administered to clients with cirrhosis to lower blood ammonia levels, thus aiding in the prevention of hepatic encephalopathy. Elevated ammonia levels in cirrhosis can lead to cognitive impairment and hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, the correct answer is B (Ammonia). Glucose (Choice A) is not the component targeted by lactulose in cirrhosis. Potassium (Choice C) and Bicarbonate (Choice D) are not directly affected by lactulose administration in cirrhosis.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct action for the nurse to take when a client on methotrexate reports bleeding gums is to check the client's current platelet count. Bleeding gums may indicate thrombocytopenia, a decreased platelet count which can be a severe side effect of methotrexate therapy. Monitoring the platelet count is crucial for early detection and management of this potentially life-threatening complication. Choice A is incorrect as bleeding gums in this context may not be an expected adverse effect of methotrexate. Choice C is irrelevant and does not address the potential underlying issue of thrombocytopenia. Choice D is not the primary action needed at this point; checking the platelet count is more urgent to assess the severity of the situation.