Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor to determine the effectiveness of heparin therapy for a client with deep vein thrombosis?

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) is the specific laboratory test used to monitor the effectiveness of heparin therapy in patients with deep vein thrombosis. It measures the time it takes for blood to clot and is crucial in assessing the therapeutic range of heparin. Platelet count, prothrombin time (PT), and hemoglobin and hematocrit levels are important parameters in assessing coagulation and blood status but do not directly indicate the effectiveness of heparin therapy.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Before administering digoxin, it is essential to assess the client's heart rate as this medication directly affects cardiac function. Monitoring the heart rate helps identify if it is within the acceptable range for administering digoxin. A pulse rate below 60 beats per minute warrants withholding the medication to prevent potential adverse effects like bradycardia or cardiac arrhythmias.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Megestrol acetate can increase the risk of thromboembolic events. Clients with a history of thrombophlebitis should not receive this medication due to the increased risk of thromboembolic events. Therefore, the nurse should contact the registered nurse if thrombophlebitis is documented in the client's history to ensure appropriate medication management.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: In the context of pharmacology and the administration of desmopressin acetate (DDAVP), the correct answer is B) Drowsiness as an adverse effect. Desmopressin acetate is a synthetic analog of vasopressin, used to treat conditions like diabetes insipidus. Drowsiness is an adverse effect because desmopressin can affect the central nervous system, leading to sedation. Option A) Insomnia is incorrect because desmopressin is not known to cause insomnia; in fact, it can have the opposite effect due to its impact on the regulation of sleep-wake cycles. Option C) Weight loss is incorrect as desmopressin is not typically associated with weight loss. In fact, fluid retention is a more common effect of this medication. Option D) Increased urination is also incorrect because desmopressin works to decrease urine production, making it an expected therapeutic effect rather than an adverse one. Educationally, understanding the adverse effects of medications is crucial for nurses and healthcare providers to ensure patient safety and well-being. It is essential to recognize and differentiate between expected therapeutic effects and potential adverse reactions to provide appropriate care and interventions for patients receiving pharmacological treatments.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C) Runny nose. Desmopressin acetate is a synthetic analogue of the antidiuretic hormone vasopressin. When administered intranasally, it can lead to side effects such as nasal congestion, runny nose, or irritation in the nasal passages. This is due to the direct contact of the medication with the nasal mucosa. Option A) Headache is a common side effect of desmopressin, but it typically occurs less frequently than nasal symptoms. Option B) Vulval pain is not a known side effect of intranasal desmopressin. Option D) Flushed skin is also not a typical side effect associated with this medication. In an educational context, it is important for healthcare providers to be knowledgeable about the side effects of medications they prescribe to ensure safe and effective patient care. Understanding the potential adverse effects of desmopressin acetate, such as nasal symptoms, allows healthcare providers to educate patients on what to expect and how to manage these effects.