When administering Amitriptyline to a client experiencing cancer pain, for which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is 'Orthostatic hypotension.' Amitriptyline can lead to orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when standing up, which can cause dizziness and increase the risk of falls. It is crucial for the nurse to monitor the client for signs of orthostatic hypotension, such as dizziness or lightheadedness when changing positions, and to educate the client to move slowly when transitioning from lying or sitting to standing.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Levothyroxine should be initiated at a low dose and titrated gradually over several weeks to achieve therapeutic levels. This approach helps to minimize the risk of adverse effects, particularly in older adult clients who may be more sensitive to medication changes. Starting at a low dose allows for close monitoring of the client's response and adjustment of the dosage as needed to optimize treatment outcomes.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The rotavirus vaccine series is usually completed before a child's first birthday. It is given to infants in a series of doses starting at 2 months of age and must be completed by 8 months of age. This vaccine helps protect against severe diarrhea and vomiting caused by rotavirus infection, which is common in infants and young children.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In caring for a client receiving epoetin alfa to treat anemia, the nurse should monitor for hypertension. Epoetin alfa is a medication that stimulates red blood cell production, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Monitoring for hypertension is crucial to prevent complications such as stroke or heart failure. Leukocytosis (option A) is an increase in white blood cells, which is not typically associated with epoetin alfa administration. Hyperkalemia (option C) is high levels of potassium in the blood, which is not a common side effect of epoetin alfa. Fever (option D) is also not a direct effect of epoetin alfa but could be a sign of infection, which should be monitored but is not the primary concern with this medication. Educationally, understanding the side effects and monitoring parameters for medications like epoetin alfa is crucial for safe and effective patient care. Nurses need to be able to recognize and respond to potential complications promptly to ensure positive patient outcomes.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Leuprolide is a medication commonly used in the treatment of prostate cancer. The correct answer is C) Gynecomastia because leuprolide is a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist that works by decreasing testosterone levels in the body. This decrease in testosterone can lead to the development of gynecomastia, which is the enlargement of breast tissue in males. Option A) Increased testosterone levels is incorrect because leuprolide actually decreases testosterone levels. Option B) Increased libido is incorrect because leuprolide commonly causes a decrease in libido as a result of lowering testosterone levels. Option D) Hypoglycemia is unrelated to leuprolide therapy and is not a common side effect associated with this medication. In an educational context, it is important for nurses to understand the mechanism of action of medications like leuprolide to anticipate potential side effects and provide appropriate monitoring and care for their patients. Understanding the expected outcomes of drug therapy helps nurses to identify and address any deviations from the norm, ensuring safe and effective patient care.