When reviewing the health history of a patient, the nurse will note that a potential contraindication to potassium supplements exists if the patient has which problem?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Potassium supplements are contraindicated in patients with renal disease because impaired kidney function can lead to the inability to adequately excrete potassium. This can result in potentially dangerous hyperkalemia (high potassium levels) in the bloodstream, which can cause serious cardiac dysrhythmias. Therefore, patients with renal disease should be cautious when taking potassium supplements or may need to avoid them altogether to prevent complications.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Thiazide diuretics are commonly used as first-line therapy for hypertension due to their effectiveness, safety profile, and affordability. They work by inhibiting sodium reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule, leading to increased elimination of sodium and water, ultimately reducing blood volume and blood pressure. Thiazide diuretics are generally well-tolerated and have been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Loop diuretics, such as furosemide, are more potent diuretics typically reserved for use in conditions where aggressive diuresis is needed, such as heart failure or renal disease. Osmotic diuretics, like mannitol, are primarily used for reducing intracranial pressure or preventing acute kidney injury. Potassium-sparing diuretics are often used in combination with other diuretics to prevent hypokalemia but are not typically used as

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Phenytoin is an antiepileptic medication that is used to control seizures. One of the common side effects of phenytoin is the development of tremors, which are involuntary shaking movements of the body. Patients taking phenytoin may experience tremors as a result of the medication's effects on the central nervous system. It is important for healthcare providers to monitor patients taking phenytoin for the development of tremors and manage them accordingly.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Given the patient's history of liver transplant and current medications (prednisone and azathioprine), the nurse should pay close attention to an increased cholesterol level. Corticosteroids (such as prednisone) and immunosuppressants (such as azathioprine) can both contribute to dyslipidemia, leading to elevated cholesterol levels. Monitoring cholesterol levels is crucial in this patient population to assess cardiovascular risk and potentially adjust medications or lifestyle interventions accordingly. The other findings mentioned (soft non-tender lump in the shoulder, grade 1+ pitting edema in the feet, swollen and pinkish gums) may be important to note but do not directly relate to the patient's history of liver transplant and medication regimen.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Lithium is a medication commonly used to treat bipolar disorder. One of the major side effects of lithium therapy is the risk of developing seizures, especially when the blood level of lithium becomes too high (lithium toxicity). Therefore, it is crucial to monitor patients on lithium therapy for signs of seizures, such as convulsions, loss of consciousness, or twitching. Monitoring lithium levels regularly and adjusting the dosage as needed can help reduce the risk of seizures in patients taking this medication.