A patient with a history of heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which assessment finding indicates a potential adverse effect of digoxin therapy?

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Question 1 of 5

A patient with a history of heart failure is prescribed digoxin. Which assessment finding indicates a potential adverse effect of digoxin therapy?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Confusion is a potential adverse effect of digoxin therapy. Digoxin toxicity can manifest as various central nervous system symptoms, including confusion, delirium, and disorientation. It is important to monitor for signs of digoxin toxicity in patients taking this medication, especially those with a history of heart failure or renal impairment. Other common signs of digoxin toxicity may include visual disturbances (like halos around lights), gastrointestinal symptoms (like nausea and vomiting), and cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring serum digoxin levels can help guide therapy and identify toxicity early.

Question 2 of 5

A patient is prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (PPI) for the treatment of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Which instruction should the nurse include in patient education about PPI therapy?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Patients prescribed proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) should be instructed to take the medication 30 minutes before meals. This is because PPIs work best when taken on an empty stomach, allowing them to inhibit the gastric proton pump effectively and reduce acid production in anticipation of food intake. Taking the medication before meals ensures optimal absorption and effectiveness in controlling symptoms of GERD.

Question 3 of 5

A patient is prescribed an antipsychotic medication for the management of schizophrenia. Which adverse effect should the nurse monitor closely in the patient?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Antipsychotic medications, especially first-generation antipsychotics, can cause extrapyramidal symptoms (EPS) as an adverse effect. EPS include symptoms such as muscle rigidity, tremors, akathisia (restlessness), and tardive dyskinesia (involuntary movements of the face and body). These symptoms are due to the medications' effects on the dopamine system in the brain. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor the patient closely for EPS because they can be uncomfortable, distressing, and may impact the patient's quality of life and medication adherence. Early recognition and management of EPS are essential to prevent further complications and improve the patient's overall well-being.

Question 4 of 5

A patient is prescribed a loop diuretic for the management of heart failure. Which electrolyte imbalance is most commonly associated with loop diuretic therapy?

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: Loop diuretics such as furosemide are commonly prescribed for the management of heart failure to reduce fluid overload and lower blood pressure by increasing the excretion of sodium and water. These medications promote the loss of potassium through increased urinary output. Hypokalemia, or low potassium levels in the blood, is the most common electrolyte imbalance associated with loop diuretic therapy. Potassium is an essential electrolyte for proper functioning of the heart, muscles, and nerves. Low potassium levels can lead to symptoms such as muscle weakness, cramps, and potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Patients on loop diuretics are often monitored for potassium levels, and sometimes potassium supplements may be prescribed to prevent or correct hypokalemia.

Question 5 of 5

During surgery, the nurse notices a discrepancy between the surgical count and the number of instruments on the sterile field. What should the nurse do?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: If a nurse notices a discrepancy between the surgical count and the number of instruments on the sterile field during surgery, it is crucial to inform the surgical team immediately and initiate a thorough search. Patient safety is of utmost importance, and any missing instruments could potentially pose a risk to the patient. By informing the team and conducting a thorough search, the missing instrument can be located promptly to ensure it is not inadvertently left inside the patient's body. Continuing with the procedure or ignoring the discrepancy without further investigation could lead to serious consequences for the patient's well-being. It is always better to address any discrepancies or concerns during surgery proactively to maintain a high standard of patient care and safety.

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