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?
Depression screening.
Daily calorie count.
Body mass index (BMI).
Serum protein levels.
The Correct Answer is C
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.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason:
Asking if the client is taking any supplements is important because certain supplements can affect blood urea nitrogen (BUN) levels. For example, high protein supplements can increase BUN levels, while others might interact with medications or affect kidney function.
Choice B reason:
Inquiring about itching or hives is relevant for identifying potential allergic reactions or side effects from medications or supplements. However, it is not directly related to the BUN levels.
Choice C reason:
Dry skin can be a symptom of various conditions, including dehydration or kidney issues. While it is a useful question, it does not directly address the BUN levels.
Choice D reason:
Asking if the client has noticed the need to urinate less often is crucial for assessing kidney function. Reduced urine output can indicate kidney dysfunction, which can affect BUN levels.
Choice E reason:
Using salt substitutes is relevant because some contain potassium, which can affect kidney function and electrolyte balance. This question helps assess potential dietary influences on BUN levels.
Choice F reason:
Experiencing urgency to urinate can be a symptom of urinary tract issues or other conditions. While it is important to know, it is not directly related to the BUN levels.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Taking the medications at least 12 hours apart does not address the interaction between erythromycin and oral contraceptives. Erythromycin can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives by increasing the metabolism of the hormones in the contraceptive, leading to a higher risk of unintended pregnancy. Therefore, simply spacing out the medications will not mitigate this risk.
Choice B Reason:
Stopping the oral contraceptive immediately is not advisable without consulting a healthcare provider. Abruptly discontinuing the contraceptive can lead to hormonal imbalances and unintended pregnancy. The primary concern with erythromycin is its potential to reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive, not that it necessitates stopping the contraceptive altogether.
Choice C Reason:
Using an additional form of contraception is the most appropriate advice. Erythromycin can interfere with the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, so using a backup method, such as condoms, is recommended to prevent unintended pregnancy. This ensures that the client remains protected while taking both medications.
Choice D Reason:
Avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight is not relevant to the interaction between erythromycin and oral contraceptives. While some medications can increase photosensitivity, this is not a primary concern with erythromycin in the context of contraceptive use.