The nurse will monitor a patient for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia if the patient is taking which of these diuretics?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that works by promoting potassium retention in the body. Therefore, patients taking spironolactone are at a higher risk of developing hyperkalemia, which is an elevated level of potassium in the blood. Hyperkalemia can lead to serious complications such as cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and even cardiac arrest. It is important for the nurse to monitor patients on spironolactone for signs and symptoms of hyperkalemia, such as weakness, numbness, tingling, or an irregular heartbeat. Other diuretics like hydrochlorothiazide (A), furosemide (B), and acetazolamide (C) do not typically cause hyperkalemia as they work to decrease potassium levels in the body.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, also known as statins, are a class of antilipemic drugs commonly prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. One side effect associated with statin use is myopathy, which manifests as muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness. In severe cases, myopathy can progress to rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by muscle breakdown and release of muscle fiber contents into the blood, potentially leading to kidney damage. It is essential for healthcare providers, such as nurses, to monitor patients on statin therapy for signs and symptoms of myopathy to intervene promptly if necessary. Niacin, fibric acid derivatives, and bile acid sequestrants are not typically associated with myopathy as a common side effect.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Clopidogrel is a drug that has a therapeutic effect in preventing thromboembolic events. It is an antiplatelet agent that works by inhibiting platelet aggregation, thus reducing the risk of blood clot formation. Clopidogrel is commonly used in patients at risk for cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes. Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that also helps prevent blood clots, but it works by a different mechanism than clopidogrel. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and angina, while nitroglycerine is a vasodilator used in the treatment of angina.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Codeine sulfate is an opioid medication commonly used to relieve pain. However, one of the most common side effects associated with the use of opioids like codeine is constipation. Opioids slow down gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation in many patients. It is important for healthcare providers to educate patients about this side effect and recommend measures to prevent or manage constipation, such as increasing fluid and fiber intake, exercise, and in some cases, the use of stool softeners or laxatives.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a severe and potentially life-threatening adverse reaction associated with the use of Furosemide, a loop diuretic. It is characterized by a severe skin reaction that can cause rashes, blisters, and mucous membrane involvement. Stevens-Johnson syndrome is considered a medical emergency and requires immediate discontinuation of the offending medication. Monitoring and management should be promptly initiated to prevent serious complications. Other side effects of Furosemide include electrolyte imbalances, ototoxicity, and dehydration, but Stevens-Johnson syndrome is a particularly serious adverse reaction that requires immediate attention.