A healthcare professional is preparing to administer Butorphanol to a client who has a history of substance use disorder. The healthcare professional should identify which of the following information as true regarding Butorphanol?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Butorphanol is an opioid agonist/antagonist that can precipitate withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent individuals. Symptoms of abstinence syndrome can include abdominal pain, fever, and anxiety. This occurs because butorphanol competes with and displaces opioid agonists from receptors, leading to withdrawal symptoms in opioid-dependent clients.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the nurse should monitor the client's liver function tests (option D) when they are taking Acarbose for type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Acarbose is a medication that can affect liver function, so monitoring liver enzymes such as ALT, AST, and bilirubin is crucial to detect any signs of hepatotoxicity or liver damage early on. The other options (A) WBC, (B) Serum potassium, and (C) Platelet count are not directly related to the medication Acarbose or its potential side effects. Monitoring white blood cell count, serum potassium levels, and platelet count are important in other clinical contexts but are not specifically indicated for a client taking Acarbose for diabetes mellitus. Educationally, this question highlights the importance of understanding the specific monitoring parameters required for various medications used in managing diabetes mellitus. It emphasizes the need for nurses to have a comprehensive understanding of pharmacology to provide safe and effective care to clients with diabetes and other chronic conditions. Monitoring for medication side effects through appropriate laboratory tests is a critical aspect of ensuring patient safety and optimal health outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Levothyroxine should be initiated at a low dose and titrated gradually over several weeks to achieve therapeutic levels. This approach helps to minimize the risk of adverse effects, particularly in older adult clients who may be more sensitive to medication changes. Starting at a low dose allows for close monitoring of the client's response and adjustment of the dosage as needed to optimize treatment outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The rotavirus vaccine series is usually completed before a child's first birthday. It is given to infants in a series of doses starting at 2 months of age and must be completed by 8 months of age. This vaccine helps protect against severe diarrhea and vomiting caused by rotavirus infection, which is common in infants and young children.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a client receiving epoetin alfa to treat anemia, the nurse should monitor for hypertension. Epoetin alfa is a medication that stimulates red blood cell production, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Monitoring for hypertension is crucial to prevent complications such as stroke or heart failure. Leukocytosis (option A) is an increase in white blood cells, which is not typically associated with epoetin alfa administration. Hyperkalemia (option C) is high levels of potassium in the blood, which is not a common side effect of epoetin alfa. Fever (option D) is also not a direct effect of epoetin alfa but could be a sign of infection, which should be monitored but is not the primary concern with this medication. Educationally, understanding the side effects and monitoring parameters for medications like epoetin alfa is crucial for safe and effective patient care. Nurses need to be able to recognize and respond to potential complications promptly to ensure positive patient outcomes.