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 D
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Folic acid is not primarily used to stimulate the immune system. Its main role is in the production of red blood cells and DNA synthesis.
Choice B rationale
Folic acid does not increase the absorption of other medications. It is used to prevent and treat folate deficiency.
Choice C rationale
Folic acid is not used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia. It is important for cell growth and the production of red blood cells.
Choice D rationale
Folic acid is crucial for the building of blood cells and is especially important during periods of rapid cell division, such as pregnancy.
Correct Answer is ["B","C","D","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
The client’s temperature has decreased from 37.8°C (100°F) to 37.2°C (99°F). While this is a slight reduction, it indicates a move towards a more normal body temperature. Elevated temperatures can be associated with stress, anxiety, or other underlying conditions. A decrease in temperature suggests that the client’s body is stabilizing and that any potential underlying issues causing the elevated temperature are being managed effectively.
Choice B rationale:
The client’s mood has improved as she appears less anxious and more composed during the physical examination. Anxiety can significantly impact a person’s overall well-being, and a reduction in anxiety levels is a positive indicator of improvement. The client also expresses optimism about her recovery, which is a good sign of mental health improvement.
Choice C rationale:
The client has gained weight, increasing from 53 kg (117 lb) to 55 kg (121 lb). Weight gain in this context is a positive sign, indicating that the client’s body is responding well to treatment and that her nutritional status is improving. Unintentional weight loss can be a symptom of underlying health issues, so reversing this trend is a good indicator of recovery.
Choice D rationale:
The client reports better sleep, which is a significant improvement from her previous insomnia. Sleep is crucial for physical and mental health, and improved sleep patterns can lead to better overall health outcomes. Insomnia can exacerbate anxiety and other health issues, so better sleep is a positive sign.
Choice E rationale:
The client’s heart rate has decreased from 120/min to 95/min. A high heart rate can be a sign of anxiety, stress, or other health issues. A reduction in heart rate indicates that the client’s anxiety levels are decreasing and that her cardiovascular system is stabilizing. This is a positive sign of improvement in her overall health.
Choice F rationale:
The client's abdominal findings remained normal from the initial to the follow-up visit, so this does not indicate improvement. These findings were normal to begin with and have stayed unchanged.