A nurse is caring for a client prescribed Furosemide. Which … | MyMerci
MyMerci — full questions and rationale, freeStart for free
Medication AdministrationPPT
Question
A nurse is caring for a client prescribed Furosemide. Which nursing action is most appropriate regarding monitoring for hypokalemia, ototoxicity, and orthostatic hypotension?
1"Levetiracetam can cause irritability and behavioral changes; notify the prescriber — pyridoxine (B6) supplementation or a medication change may be considered."✓ Correct answer
2"These behaviors are likely due to the underlying epilepsy; adjusting the medication could worsen seizures, so we should not change anything at this point."
3"These behavioral changes can occur but are usually mild and temporary; continue the medication and keep a diary of the behaviors."
4"These symptoms are not typically associated with levetiracetam; you should discuss a referral for psychological assessment with the provider."
Explanation
When administering Furosemide, key nursing considerations include monitoring patient status, checking critical laboratory values, and providing appropriate safety education. Unsafe practices such as stopping medications abruptly or doubling missed doses are incorrect.
Memory Tip Levetiracetam = "Lev-er-RAGE-tam" — irritability and rage. CPG Screen for mood/behavior at every follow-up; suicide risk warning class-wide for anticonvulsants.
Clinical scenario
Scenario 10-year-old boy started levetiracetam 250 mg PO BID 3 weeks ago for new generalized epilepsy. Parents report new irritability, aggression, and outbursts at school. Seizures controlled.
Key concepts
Levetiracetam behavioral effects — Irritability, aggression, depression, and rarely suicidal ideation; common reason for switching this otherwise well-tolerated drug.
Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) — Supplement sometimes added to mitigate levetiracetam behavioral side effects.
Suicidality warning — FDA class warning for anticonvulsants; screen all patients on chronic therapy.