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 A
Explanation
A. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, meaning it helps retain potassium while promoting sodium and water excretion. This makes it advantageous for clients who may be at risk for hypokalemia with furosemide, which can lead to significant potassium loss.
B. This statement is incorrect; spironolactone causes less potassium loss compared to furosemide, making it a better option for those needing to maintain potassium levels.
C. This statement is misleading; spironolactone does promote diuresis but does not cause greater water losses than furosemide.
D. This is incorrect; while spironolactone does promote sodium excretion, it does not do so to a greater extent than furosemide, which is a more potent diuretic.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Hypocalcemia is correct because esomeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, can lead to decreased calcium absorption, resulting in low calcium levels, which can cause muscle cramps.
B. Hyperkalemia is incorrect; while potassium levels can be affected by various medications, muscle cramps are not typically associated with high potassium levels.
C. Hypercalcemia is incorrect as it refers to elevated calcium levels, which would not cause muscle cramps and could actually lead to muscle weakness rather than cramping.
D. Hyponatremia is incorrect; low sodium levels may cause other symptoms but are not specifically linked to muscle cramps in the same way as low calcium levels are.