A patient receiving heparin therapy develops bruising and bleeding gums. What should the nurse suspect and what is the appropriate action?
Suspect an allergic reaction and administer antihistamines.
Suspect a bleeding complication and notify the healthcare provider.
Suspect a hypersensitivity reaction and discontinue the heparin immediately.
Suspect an infection and initiate antibiotic therapy.
The Correct Answer is B
A. Bruising and bleeding gums are not indicative of an allergic reaction, which would typically present with different symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling. Administering antihistamines would not address the underlying issue.
B. The development of bruising and bleeding gums in a patient on heparin therapy suggests a bleeding complication, which is a known risk of anticoagulation therapy. The nurse should notify the healthcare provider to assess the situation and possibly adjust treatment or perform further evaluations.
C. While hypersensitivity reactions can occur with medications, the symptoms presented here are more aligned with bleeding complications than with hypersensitivity. Discontinuing heparin without consulting the provider could put the patient at risk for thromboembolic events.
D. The symptoms do not indicate an infection; therefore, initiating antibiotic therapy would not be appropriate in this context.
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Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Take the drug on an empty stomach is correct because tetracycline should be taken without food for optimal absorption, ideally 1 hour before or 2 hours after meals.
B. Take the drug along with a meal is incorrect as it can reduce the absorption of tetracycline.
C. Take the drug along with milk or fruit juice is incorrect because calcium and magnesium can bind to tetracycline, decreasing its effectiveness.
D. Take the drug immediately after meals is also incorrect as food can hinder absorption, making this timing ineffective for treatment.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Sodium levels are important to monitor, but they are not the primary concern with furosemide treatment.
B. Bone marrow function is not a direct concern related to furosemide therapy.
C. Calcium levels are less critical compared to potassium when monitoring a client on furosemide.
D. Potassium levels are correct because furosemide is a loop diuretic that can lead to significant potassium loss, putting the client at risk for hypokalemia, which can have serious cardiac implications.