A nurse is caring for a client who is being administered spironolactone (Aldactone). Which of the following laboratory values should be monitored due to taking this medication?
Troponins
Potassium
Albumin
Bicarbonate
The Correct Answer is B
A) Troponins: These are primarily used to assess for cardiac damage, such as in myocardial infarction. They are not directly related to the effects of spironolactone, so monitoring troponins is not necessary in this context.
B) Potassium: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which can lead to elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia). This can have serious implications, including cardiac arrhythmias. Therefore, it is crucial to monitor potassium levels regularly in clients taking
spironolactone to prevent potential complications.
C) Albumin: While albumin levels can provide information about the client's nutritional status and liver function, they are not specifically affected by spironolactone. Monitoring albumin is not a priority when considering the use of this medication.
D) Bicarbonate: Bicarbonate levels are important for assessing acid-base balance. Although spironolactone may have some impact on acid-base status, monitoring bicarbonate is not as critical as monitoring potassium levels, which are directly affected by the medication's action.
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View Related questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) "These tests will enable the provider to determine the heart structure and mobility of the heart valves." This statement is incorrect because cardiac enzyme tests, including troponin levels, do not assess heart structure or valve mobility. Imaging studies like echocardiograms are typically used for evaluating heart structure and function.
B) "Cardiac enzymes assist in diagnosing the presence of congestive heart failure." While cardiac enzymes can provide some information about heart function, they are not specifically used to diagnose congestive heart failure. The primary role of cardiac enzymes, particularly troponin, is in diagnosing myocardial injury, such as an acute myocardial infarction.
C) "Cardiac enzymes like troponin shows there has been damage to the heart tissues and muscle." This statement accurately reflects the purpose of measuring troponin levels. Troponin is a protein released into the bloodstream when heart muscle cells are damaged, making it a crucial biomarker for diagnosing an acute myocardial infarction.
D) "Cardiac enzymes will identify the exact location of the MI." This statement is misleading. While troponin levels can indicate that damage has occurred, they do not provide information about the specific location of the myocardial infarction. Other imaging techniques, such as an angiogram, are needed to determine the exact location of blockages or damage.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E","G"]
Explanation
A) Family history: Family history is a significant non-modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis. While individuals cannot change their genetic predisposition, awareness of family history can inform lifestyle choices and risk assessments. Those with a family history should be particularly vigilant about managing other risk factors.
B) High blood pressure: High blood pressure is a modifiable risk factor that can be controlled through lifestyle changes such as diet, exercise, and medication if necessary. Effective management of hypertension can significantly reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
C) Obesity: Obesity is another modifiable risk factor. Individuals can manage their weight through healthy eating, physical activity, and lifestyle modifications. Reducing obesity can improve overall cardiovascular health and decrease the risk of developing atherosclerosis.
D) Age: Age is a non-modifiable risk factor. As people age, the risk for atherosclerosis naturally increases due to various biological changes. While aging itself cannot be altered, awareness of age-related risks can prompt individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles.
E) Lack of physical activity: This is a modifiable risk factor. Increasing physical activity can improve cardiovascular health and reduce the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight and improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels, contributing to overall heart health.
F) Gender: Gender is also a non-modifiable risk factor. While certain genders may have different risks at various life stages (e.g., men often have a higher risk at a younger age), this characteristic cannot be changed. Understanding gender-related risks can aid in tailoring preventive strategies but does not offer a means of modification.
G) Smoking: Smoking is a critical modifiable risk factor for atherosclerosis. Quitting smoking can significantly lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improve overall health. Smoking cessation should be a priority for individuals looking to prevent or manage atherosclerosis effectively.