A patient is taking levofloxacin. What does the nurse know to be true regarding this drug?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Levofloxacin is a fluoroquinolone antibiotic available in both oral and intravenous forms. It is not classified as an aminoglycoside. A well-documented adverse effect of fluoroquinolones is tendon rupture, particularly in older adults and those on corticosteroid therapy. Hypertension is not a common side effect of levofloxacin. Patients should be advised to report any tendon pain or swelling immediately.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Furosemide, a loop diuretic, promotes the excretion of potassium, sodium, and water. Hypokalemia (low potassium) is a common side effect and can lead to muscle weakness, arrhythmias, and other complications. Hyperkalemia (A) is unlikely with furosemide. Hypernatremia (B) and hyponatremia (D) are less common but should still be monitored.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Acetaminophen is often used to manage pain in patients with gout, as it does not interfere with uric acid levels. Aspirin is contraindicated because it can reduce the effectiveness of probenecid. Orphenadrine and tizanidine are muscle relaxants and are not indicated for gout pain. Acetaminophen is a safe and effective option for pain relief in this context.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: In this scenario, the correct answer is D) Nystagmus. Phenytoin is an antiepileptic drug that can cause adverse effects when blood levels are elevated. Nystagmus, an involuntary eye movement, is a common neurological side effect of phenytoin toxicity. Option A) No symptoms because the value is within the normal range is incorrect because a blood level of 25 mcg/ml is considered high for phenytoin, potentially leading to toxicity symptoms. Option B) Hyperactivity is not typically associated with phenytoin toxicity; instead, central nervous system depressant effects are more common. Option C) Tremors are not a typical symptom of phenytoin toxicity; tremors are more commonly seen with medications like stimulants or in conditions like Parkinson's disease. Educationally, understanding the side effects and symptoms of medication toxicity is crucial for healthcare professionals to provide safe and effective care to their patients. Monitoring drug levels and recognizing associated symptoms are essential in managing medication therapy.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Acute falciparum malaria from Nigeria, a chloroquine-resistant area, requires effective therapy. Chloroquine is ineffective due to resistance. Proguanil/atovaquone (Malarone) treats uncomplicated falciparum malaria, rapid-acting and well-tolerated, most appropriate here. Primaquine targets liver stages, not acute blood infection. Pyrimethamine and hydroxychloroquine are less effective. Malarone's efficacy ensures rapid parasite clearance, vital in this potentially severe disease.