While a patient is receiving antilipemic therapy, the nurse knows to monitor the patient closely for the development of which problem?

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Antilipemic therapy is used to lower cholesterol levels in the blood. This type of therapy often places a strain on the liver as it metabolizes and processes the cholesterol-lowering medications. Therefore, patients receiving antilipemic therapy are at an increased risk of developing liver dysfunction. The nurse should monitor the patient closely for signs and symptoms of liver dysfunction, such as jaundice, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and changes in liver function tests. Early detection and intervention can help prevent serious complications associated with liver dysfunction.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: Amiodarone, labetalol, and carvedilol are not indicated for pediatric use and do not have established pediatric dosages. Phentolamine and prazosin have established pediatric dosages and would not need to be questioned. The nurse should always verify the appropriateness of medications for pediatric patients, as their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics differ from adults.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: When a client receives total parenteral nutrition (TPN), monitoring blood glucose levels is critical due to the high glucose content in TPN solutions, which can lead to hyperglycemia. This condition arises because TPN delivers concentrated nutrients directly into the bloodstream, bypassing the digestive system, and the body may struggle to regulate sugar levels effectively without proper insulin response. Potassium levels, while important in overall electrolyte balance, are less immediately impacted by TPN compared to glucose, as potassium imbalances typically develop over time rather than acutely from TPN initiation. Mental status assessments are valuable for neurological conditions but lack direct relevance to TPN's metabolic effects. Similarly, blood pressure monitoring is essential for cardiovascular health but isn't the primary concern with TPN, as it doesn't directly influence hypertension or hypotension in the same way glucose dysregulation does. The focus on glucose stems from its rapid impact on the client's metabolic state, making it the priority assessment to prevent complications like hyperglycemia, which can escalate to severe outcomes if unaddressed. Regular monitoring ensures timely intervention, aligning with TPN's nutritional goals.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: Palpitations are a late manifestation of hypokalemia. Hypokalemia is a condition characterized by low levels of potassium in the blood, which can affect the heart's ability to function properly. Palpitations, or irregular heartbeat, can occur as a result of the heart's increased sensitivity to adrenaline due to low potassium levels. Other early manifestations of hypokalemia include muscle weakness, which is a result of potassium's role in muscle contraction, hypotension (low blood pressure), and lethargy.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The patient is experiencing gastrointestinal upset from taking aspirin. Enteric-coated aspirin would be a suitable alternative in this case because the special coating on the aspirin helps protect the stomach lining and reduces the risk of gastrointestinal irritation. Switching to an enteric-coated aspirin can still provide the antiplatelet benefits needed for secondary prevention of myocardial infarction while minimizing the gastrointestinal side effects. It is important to address the patient's symptoms while ensuring that they continue to receive appropriate treatment for their medical condition.