Author Question: A nurse is caring for a client with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) who is taking ... (Read 94 times)

laurencescou · **on:** Jun 25, 2018

A nurse is caring for a client with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) who is taking hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil). When providing care for this client, the nurse monitors for which adverse effects associated with the prescribed medication?

A) Pulmonary fibrosis
B) Cushingoid effects
C) Retinal toxicity
D) Renal toxicity

Question 2

A nurse caring for a client with systemic lupus erythematous (SLE) who is prescribed immunosuppressive therapy. When providing teaching for this client, which topics are appropriate for the nurse to include?

Select all that apply.
A) Avoid large crowds and situations that increase exposure to infection.
B) Report difficulty breathing or cough to the physician if taking cyclophosphamide.
C) Use aspirin instead of acetaminophen if fever develops.
D) Heavy menstrual bleeding may occur during therapy.
E) Maintain appropriate oral hydration.

stallen · **Reply #1 on:** Jun 25, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Answer: C

Hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) is an antimalarial drug used in SLE to reduce the frequency of acute episodes of SLE. The primary concern with Plaquenil is retinal toxicity and possible irreversible blindness. Cushingoid effects are a concern with corticosteroid therapy. Pulmonary fibrosis is a potential adverse effect of cyclophosphamide, not Plaquenil. Renal toxicity is not the primary concern with Plaquenil.

Answer to Question 2

Answer: A, B, E

When teaching a client with SLE who is receiving immunosuppressant therapy, the nurse will tell the client to avoiding large crowds and situations that increase exposure to infection; to report difficulty breathing or a cough; and to maintain adequate oral hydration. The client should report a fever if it develops, and aspirin should not be used, as this may increase the risk for bleeding. Women may have an absence of menstruation, not heavy bleeding, during therapy.