A 70-year-old patient will begin taking cefdinir (Omnicef) for an ...

[rl]

A 70-year-old patient will begin taking cefdinir (Omnicef) for an acute exacerbation of COPD. Before initiating therapy, the primary care NP should order:
 
  a. liver function tests (LFTs).
  b. coagulation studies.
  c. an electrocardiogram (ECG).
  d. a creatinine clearance test.

Question 2

A patient who takes valproic acid for a seizure disorder is preparing to have surgery. The primary care NP should order:
 
  a. coagulation studies.
  b. a complete blood count.
  c. an EEG.
  d. a creatinine clearance test.

[meganlapinski]

Answer to Question 1

D
Geriatric patients may need adjusted doses based on creatinine clearance testing, so obtaining a creatinine clearance test before initiating therapy is indicated. LFTs, coagulation studies, and an ECG are not indicated.

Answer to Question 2

A
Valproic acid may cause thrombocytopenia and inhibition of platelet aggregation. Platelet counts and coagulation studies should be done before therapy is initiated, at regular intervals, and before any surgical procedure is performed.

[rl]

Thanks for the timely response, appreciate it

[kjohnson]

Gracias!