A nurse is reviewing the lab work of a client on a medical-surgical unit who has a new prescription for captopril. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse identify as the priority to monitor?
Alanine aminotransferase
Thyroid-stimulating hormone
Potassium
Magnesium
The Correct Answer is C
Rationale:
A. Monitoring alanine aminotransferase is important for liver function, but it is not the priority for a client on captopril.
B. Thyroid-stimulating hormone is not directly impacted by captopril and is not the priority lab value to monitor in this context.
C. Potassium is the priority laboratory value to monitor because captopril, an ACE inhibitor, can lead to hyperkalemia (elevated potassium levels), which can cause serious cardiac complications.
D. While magnesium levels are important to monitor, they are not specifically related to captopril therapy as potassium levels are.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Rationale:
A. "Remove the patch for two to four hours daily.": This is incorrect because transdermal nitroglycerin patches should be worn continuously for 24 hours, with a scheduled time to remove them (usually overnight) to prevent tolerance.
B. "Apply a new patch each day after waking up.": This instruction is correct; clients should apply a new patch daily to ensure continuous therapeutic effects while also allowing a break to reduce tolerance.
C. "Cover the patch with plastic wrap.": This is incorrect; covering the patch with plastic wrap can alter the absorption of the medication and is not necessary.
D. "Replace the existing patch with a new patch as soon as anginal pain begins.": This is incorrect; clients should not replace the patch immediately for angina. Instead, they should use sublingual nitroglycerin for immediate relief and follow the prescribed patch schedule.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Rationale:
A. Increase fluids while taking the medication: Amitriptyline is a tricyclic antidepressant that can cause anticholinergic side effects such as dry mouth and constipation. Increasing fluid intake helps to mitigate these effects and prevent dehydration and constipation.
B. Expect an elevation in blood pressure with initial doses of the medication: Amitriptyline can cause orthostatic hypotension rather than elevated blood pressure. Clients should be informed about the risk of dizziness or fainting.
C. Stop the medication immediately if urine becomes orange in color: Orange urine is not a common side effect of amitriptyline. Clients should not stop the medication without consulting their provider.
D. Take the medication in the morning: Amitriptyline has sedative effects and is typically taken at night to help manage sleep disturbances and reduce daytime drowsiness.