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. A drug that binds tightly to protein is typically released slowly, not quickly, as it remains bound in circulation.
B. Tight binding to proteins usually results in a prolonged duration of action since the drug is released gradually into the bloodstream, leading to sustained therapeutic effects.
C. Drugs that bind tightly to protein are generally not excreted quickly; they remain in circulation longer due to the binding.
D. While toxicity can occur with any drug, tight protein binding does not inherently lead to toxicity; it primarily affects the pharmacokinetics of the drug.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. While assessing potassium levels is important for clients on diuretics, the immediate concern is the client's dizziness, which indicates a potential issue with blood pressure.
B. Teaching the client about the potential for orthostatic hypotension caused by hydrochlorothiazide and instructing them on safety measures (e.g., standing up slowly) is crucial to prevent falls and address the dizziness.
C. Bed rest is not necessary; the client should be educated about managing dizziness instead.
D. Withholding the medication is not warranted unless directed by a healthcare provider; the focus should be on safety education.