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    Ati Pn Pharmacology 2023 Proctored Exam

    A nurse is caring for a client who has hypertension and has been taking hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following laboratory values should the nurse evaluate?

    Explanation & Rationale

    A. Hydrochlorothiazide can cause electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia (low potassium levels), hyponatremia (low sodium levels), and hypomagnesemia (low magnesium levels). Monitoring serum electrolyte levels, including potassium, sodium, and magnesium, is essential to detect and manage any abnormalities that may occur as a result of hydrochlorothiazide therapy. B. Thyroid levels are not typically affected by hydrochlorothiazide therapy. Therefore, monitoring thyroid levels is not necessary in clients taking hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension. C. Hydrochlorothiazide is not known to affect coagulation studies such as prothrombin time (PT), activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT), or international normalized ratio (INR). D. Hydrochlorothiazide is not typically associated with significant hematologic effects that would necessitate routine monitoring of the complete blood count. Therefore, monitoring CBC is not routinely indicated for clients taking hydrochlorothiazide for hypertension.

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