A patient has been started on therapy of a continuous infusion of lidocaine after receiving a loading dose of the drug. The nurse will monitor the patient for which adverse effect?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Lidocaine is a local anesthetic drug that can lead to central nervous system (CNS) toxicity when given in excessive doses. Symptoms of lidocaine toxicity include drowsiness, confusion, visual disturbances, muscle twitching, seizures, and, in severe cases, cardiovascular collapse. Among the options provided, convulsions are the most concerning adverse effect associated with lidocaine toxicity. It is essential for the nurse to closely monitor the patient for any signs or symptoms of CNS toxicity and promptly report any concerning findings to the healthcare provider to prevent potentially serious complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine and is commonly used for the treatment of hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone to meet the body's needs, leading to various symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression. By providing exogenous levothyroxine, the medication helps restore normal thyroid hormone levels in the body, thereby alleviating the symptoms of hypothyroidism and restoring normal hormonal balance. It is important to monitor thyroid hormone levels regularly when on levothyroxine therapy to ensure optimal dosing and maintenance of normal thyroid function.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which means that it helps the body get rid of excess sodium and water while retaining potassium. This is accomplished by blocking the action of aldosterone, a hormone that normally causes the kidneys to retain sodium and water and excrete potassium. Potassium-sparing diuretics like spironolactone are often used in conjunction with other diuretics to prevent potassium loss and maintain electrolyte balance. In contrast, options A, C, and D (Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Bumetanide) are loop diuretics or thiazide diuretics which promote the excretion of both sodium and potassium.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Levothyroxine is a synthetic form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine (T4). It is primarily used for the treatment of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. By providing exogenous levothyroxine, the medication helps to restore the normal hormonal balance in the body. This can alleviate symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and other issues related to an underactive thyroid gland. Levothyroxine is not used for the suppression of seizure activity, decreased frequency of migraines, or treatment of ulcers.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication commonly used to prevent and treat blood clots, specifically thromboembolic events. It works by inhibiting the production of certain clotting factors in the liver, thereby reducing the risk of clot formation in blood vessels. Warfarin is often prescribed for conditions such as atrial fibrillation, deep vein thrombosis, and pulmonary embolism to help prevent strokes, heart attacks, and other complications associated with blood clots. It is not used for suppressing seizure activity, causing laxative action, or relieving anginal attacks.