If clozapine (Clozaril) therapy is being considered, the nurse should evaluate which laboratory test to establish a baseline for comparison in order to recognize a potentially life-threatening side effect?

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: White blood cell count. Clozapine can lead to agranulocytosis, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by a severe decrease in white blood cells. By evaluating the baseline white blood cell count, the nurse can monitor for any significant drops during therapy. Liver function studies (choice B), creatinine clearance (choice C), and blood urea nitrogen (choice D) are important to monitor for other potential side effects of clozapine but are not specifically related to recognizing agranulocytosis.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Rationale: The correct answer is D because monitoring sodium intake is not a specific indicator related to the side effects of MAOIs like phenelzine. Monitoring dietary restrictions such as avoiding sausages, chocolate, and Chinese food, as well as wearing elastic hose and supportive shoes to prevent postural hypotension are essential in managing potential side effects of MAOIs. These monitoring parameters are directly related to the mechanism of action and potential side effects of MAOIs, unlike maintaining a stable sodium intake which is not a specific concern with these medications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Hyperlipidemia. These serum levels indicate high levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), which are characteristic of hyperlipidemia. High levels of these lipids increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Hypolipidemia (A) indicates low lipid levels, which is not the case here. Normolipidemia (B) suggests normal lipid levels, which the patient's levels exceed. Alipidemia (D) refers to absence of lipids, which is not the case here.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: lithium (Lithobid). Lithium is known to cause alterations in cardiac conductivity, such as prolonging the QT interval, which can lead to arrhythmias. It also affects renal function, leading to fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Clozapine, fluoxetine, and venlafaxine do not have significant effects on cardiac conductivity or fluid/electrolyte balance. Therefore, the nurse should be most alert for these issues in the patient receiving lithium.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: "They will learn about the activity in various portions of your brain." A PET scan measures metabolic activity in the brain by detecting the distribution of a radioactive tracer. This helps doctors assess brain function, diagnose conditions like Alzheimer's or epilepsy, and monitor treatment response. Choice A is incorrect as PET scans can also detect brain activity, not just tumors and scars. Choice C is incorrect as outlining brain structures is typically done with other imaging techniques like MRI. Choice D is incorrect as PET scans have significant clinical utility in various medical specialties.