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 ["C","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Monitoring glucose levels is not typically necessary for patients receiving gentamicin, as it does not significantly affect glucose metabolism.
Choice B rationale
Prothrombin time is not commonly affected by gentamicin, so routine monitoring is not required.
Choice C rationale
Serum creatinine levels should be monitored to assess kidney function, as gentamicin can cause nephrotoxicity.
Choice D rationale
Cardiac enzymes are not typically affected by gentamicin, so routine monitoring is not necessary.
Choice E rationale
Monitoring WBC count is important to detect any signs of infection or bone marrow suppression, which can occur with gentamicin use.
Correct Answer is ["A","E"]
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Muscle weakness is a common symptom of hypokalemia due to decreased potassium levels affecting muscle function.
Choice B rationale
Hyperactive bowel sounds can indicate hypokalemia because potassium is essential for normal gastrointestinal motility. Low potassium levels can lead to increased activity in the intestines, resulting in hyperactive bowel sounds.
Choice C rationale
Tingling of fingers, or paresthesia, can be a symptom of hypokalemia, as low potassium levels may affect nerve conduction. This results in abnormal sensations like tingling or numbness.
Choice D rationale
Peaked T waves are more commonly associated with hyperkalemia rather than hypokalemia. Therefore, this option would not indicate hypokalemia. However, a nurse should be vigilant about monitoring potassium levels as both conditions can lead to significant cardiovascular effects.
Choice E rationale
Fatigue is another symptom of hypokalemia as low potassium levels can impair cellular function and energy production.