A nurse is administering drugs to a 70-year-old patient who has a reduced plasma albumin level. When assessing the patient for therapeutic outcomes of drug therapy, the nurse will also be careful to observe for
possible drug toxicity.
decreased therapeutic effects.
altered drug absorption.
increased drug metabolism.
The Correct Answer is A
A. A reduced plasma albumin level can lead to increased free drug levels in the bloodstream, raising the risk of drug toxicity, particularly for highly protein-bound medications.
B. Decreased therapeutic effects are less likely because the decrease in albumin can lead to higher free drug concentrations, which may actually increase effects rather than decrease them.
C. Altered drug absorption is generally not directly influenced by plasma albumin levels; it relates more to gastrointestinal factors.
D. Increased drug metabolism is not a direct consequence of lower albumin levels; instead, the concern is primarily about increased free drug concentrations and potential toxicity.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Increasing fluid intake may not alleviate the cramping and diarrhea, which are common side effects of magnesium citrate.
B. Abdominal cramping and diarrhea are expected side effects of magnesium citrate, and the patient can continue the medication unless symptoms become severe.
C. Discontinuing the medication should not be recommended unless the side effects are intolerable or the patient experiences severe reactions.
D. Switching to a different type of laxative is unnecessary unless the patient has contraindications to magnesium citrate or develops severe side effects.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Performing a blood sugar analysis is important, but the immediate symptoms indicate hypoglycemia, and rapid treatment is necessary before confirming blood sugar levels.
B. Having the client drink a glass of orange juice provides a quick source of glucose to counteract hypoglycemia, which is the most appropriate initial response to address the client's symptoms.
C. Administering 1 ampule of 50% dextrose intravenously is an appropriate intervention for severe hypoglycemia but is not the initial step for a client who can still take oral carbohydrates.
D. Administering insulin would worsen the client's condition by lowering blood sugar levels further, which is not indicated in this scenario.