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A client is receiving orlistat as part of a weight management program. Which ongoing assessment should be included in the plan of care to determine the effectiveness of the medication?

The correct answer is:

Potential Condition: e. Tachydysrhythmia

Actions to Take:

• a. Place the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor
• c. Give a dose of albuterol

Parameters to Monitor:

• g. Breath sounds
• h. Airway edema

Choice A: Place the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor

Reason: Placing the client on a cardiorespiratory monitor is crucial in this scenario because the client is experiencing heart palpitations, dizziness, and lightheadedness, which are indicative of a potential tachydysrhythmia. A cardiorespiratory monitor will continuously track the heart rate and rhythm, allowing for immediate detection of any abnormal heart rhythms. This is essential for timely intervention and management of any life-threatening arrhythmias. Continuous monitoring also helps in assessing the effectiveness of any treatments administered and in making necessary adjustments.

Choice B: Administer diphenhydramine

Reason: Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine commonly used to treat allergic reactions and symptoms of anaphylaxis. However, in this case, the client does not exhibit symptoms of an allergic reaction or anaphylaxis, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. The primary concern here is the heart palpitations and dizziness, which are more indicative of a cardiac issue rather than an allergic reaction. Therefore, administering diphenhydramine would not address the underlying problem and is not the appropriate action in this scenario.

Choice C: Give a dose of albuterol

Reason: Albuterol is a bronchodilator used to relieve bronchospasm in conditions like asthma. Although the client has moderate persistent asthma and has been using albuterol, the current symptoms of heart palpitations and dizziness suggest a possible overuse of albuterol, leading to tachydysrhythmia. However, in the context of an acute asthma exacerbation, administering albuterol can still be necessary to manage bronchospasm. It is important to balance the need for bronchodilation with the risk of exacerbating tachydysrhythmia. Therefore, giving a dose of albuterol should be carefully considered and monitored.

Choice D: Anaphylaxis

Reason: Anaphylaxis is a severe, life-threatening allergic reaction that requires immediate treatment with epinephrine. The client does not present with symptoms typical of anaphylaxis, such as hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Instead, the symptoms of heart palpitations, dizziness, and lightheadedness are more consistent with a cardiac issue. Additionally, the client’s oxygen saturation is 99% on room air, which is not indicative of anaphylaxis. Therefore, anaphylaxis is not the most likely condition in this scenario.

Choice E: Tachydysrhythmia

Reason: Tachydysrhythmia refers to an abnormal heart rhythm with a rapid rate, which can cause symptoms such as heart palpitations, dizziness, and lightheadedness. The client’s symptoms, along with the history of using multiple doses of albuterol, suggest that she may be experiencing a tachydysrhythmia. Albuterol, a beta-agonist, can cause tachycardia and palpitations, especially when used frequently. Therefore, tachydysrhythmia is the most likely condition the client is experiencing.

Choice F: Anemia

Reason: Anemia is a condition characterized by a deficiency of red blood cells or hemoglobin, leading to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and dizziness. While dizziness and lightheadedness can be symptoms of anemia, the client’s presentation of heart palpitations and the context of asthma management with frequent albuterol use point more towards a cardiac issue rather than anemia. Additionally, there is no mention of other common symptoms of anemia, such as pallor or fatigue, in the client’s history and physical examination.

Choice G: Breath sounds

Reason: Monitoring breath sounds is essential in assessing the respiratory status of a client with asthma. Changes in breath sounds can indicate the presence of bronchospasm, airway obstruction, or other respiratory complications. In this scenario, monitoring breath sounds will help assess the effectiveness of albuterol treatment and detect any worsening of asthma symptoms. It is also important to ensure that the client’s respiratory status remains stable while addressing the cardiac issue.

Choice H: Airway edema

Reason: Monitoring for airway edema is important in clients with asthma, as it can indicate inflammation and swelling of the airways, leading to obstruction and difficulty breathing. In this case, while the primary concern is the cardiac symptoms, it is still important to monitor for any signs of airway edema, especially given the client’s history of asthma and recent exacerbation of symptoms. This will help in managing the respiratory aspect of the client’s condition and ensuring comprehensive care.

Choice I: Iron level

Reason: Monitoring iron levels is relevant in the context of anemia, as low iron levels can indicate iron deficiency anemia. However, in this scenario, the client’s symptoms and history do not suggest anemia as the primary issue. The focus should be on monitoring parameters related to the cardiac and respiratory systems, given the client’s presentation of heart palpitations, dizziness, and asthma exacerbation. Therefore, monitoring iron levels is not a priority in this case.

Choice A Reason:

Depression screening is important for overall health and well-being, especially in weight management programs where mental health can significantly impact outcomes. However, it is not the primary measure for determining the effectiveness of orlistat. Orlistat works by inhibiting the absorption of fats from the diet, leading to weight loss. Therefore, while mental health monitoring is crucial, it does not directly measure the medication’s effectiveness.

Choice B Reason:

Daily calorie count is a useful tool in weight management programs to ensure that clients are adhering to a calorie-restricted diet. However, it is not a direct measure of the effectiveness of orlistat. While calorie counting can help manage weight, the primary goal of orlistat is to reduce fat absorption, which is better reflected in changes in body weight and BMI.

Choice C Reason:

Body mass index (BMI) is a key indicator of weight management and is directly related to the effectiveness of orlistat. BMI is calculated based on height and weight, providing a clear measure of changes in body weight over time. Monitoring BMI helps determine if the client is losing weight as expected, making it the most appropriate assessment for evaluating the effectiveness of orlistat.

Choice D Reason:

Serum protein levels are important for assessing nutritional status and overall health. However, they do not directly measure the effectiveness of orlistat in a weight management program. Orlistat’s primary function is to reduce fat absorption, and its effectiveness is better assessed through changes in body weight and BMI rather than serum protein levels.