A nurse is reviewing the laboratory findings for a female client who is taking zidovudine to treat HIV. Which of the following should the nurse identify as an adverse finding associated with this medication?
Neutrophil count 650/mm³ (2,500 to 8,000/mm³).
Platelets 450,000/mm³ (150,000 to 400,000/mm³).
Hgb 17 g/dL (12 to 16 g/dL).
Creatinine 1.5 mg/dL (0.5 to 1 mg/dL).
The Correct Answer is A
Choice A rationale
A neutrophil count of 650/mm³ is significantly lower than the normal range (2,500 to 8,000/mm³) and indicates neutropenia, which is a known adverse effect of zidovudine. Neutropenia increases the risk of infections and requires close monitoring and potential dose adjustment or discontinuation of the medication.
Choice B rationale
A platelet count of 450,000/mm³ is slightly above the normal range (150,000 to 400,000/mm³) but is not typically associated with zidovudine toxicity. Zidovudine is more commonly associated with bone marrow suppression leading to anemia and neutropenia rather than thrombocytosis.
Choice C rationale
An Hgb level of 17 g/dL is above the normal range for females (12 to 16 g/dL) but is not a common adverse effect of zidovudine. Zidovudine is more likely to cause anemia, leading to lower hemoglobin levels rather than elevated levels.
Choice D rationale
A creatinine level of 1.5 mg/dL is within the upper limit of the normal range (0.5 to 1 mg/dL) and is not a typical adverse effect of zidovudine. Zidovudine primarily affects the bone marrow and does not have a significant impact on renal function.
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Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Repeating up to four doses until pain is relieved is incorrect. The correct instruction is to take one tablet at the onset of pain and repeat every 5 minutes if needed, up to a maximum of three tablets in 15 minutes.
Choice B rationale
Storing unused tablets at room temperature is correct. Nitroglycerin tablets should be stored in their original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Choice C rationale
Taking two tablets at the onset of pain is incorrect. The correct instruction is to take one tablet at the onset of pain and repeat every 5 minutes if needed, up to a maximum of three tablets in 15 minutes.
Choice D rationale
Taking the medication two hours prior to exercise is incorrect. Nitroglycerin should be taken 5 to 10 minutes before an activity that may cause chest pain.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
CBC results are not directly related to the initiation of alendronate therapy.
Choice B rationale
Family history of colon cancer is not relevant to alendronate therapy.
Choice C rationale
Thyroid function is not directly related to alendronate therapy.
Choice D rationale
Pregnancy status should be assessed as alendronate is contraindicated during pregnancy.