Question

The physician has prescribed Cognex (tacrine) for a client with dementia. The nurse should monitor the client for adverse reactions, which include: A. Hypoglycemia B. Jaundice C. Urinary retention D. Tinnitus

Short answer

Answer: B. Jaundice

Step-by-step solution

Understand the question

First, make sure you understand the question and the medical terms provided in the options. Cognex (tacrine) is a medication prescribed for patients with dementia. We need to find the adverse reaction among the given options: A. Hypoglycemia B. Jaundice C. Urinary retention D. Tinnitus

Research Cognex (tacrine) and its adverse reactions

Next, research Cognex (tacrine) and its side effects to determine the correct answer. After researching, we find that the most common adverse reactions for tacrine include elevation of liver enzymes, which may lead to liver-related problems such as jaundice if not monitored properly.

Compare research findings with the provided options

Compare the research findings with the given options. Based on the information gathered about Cognex (tacrine) and its adverse reactions, the correct answer is related to liver problems. In this case, the option mentioning a liver-related issue is: B. Jaundice

Choose the correct answer

Based on the research and comparison, the correct answer to the question is: B. Jaundice

Key concepts

Dementia Medication

When it comes to treating dementia, medications like Cognex (tacrine) can be prescribed to help manage symptoms. Tacrine is part of a class of drugs called cholinesterase inhibitors, which work to increase the levels of acetylcholine in the brain, a neurotransmitter involved in memory and judgment. However, while these medications can be beneficial, they also come with potential side effects.

Tacrine, in particular, has been associated with various adverse reactions, such as nausea, diarrhea, and, notably, liver damage, which can manifest as jaundice. Jaundice is a condition characterized by the yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes, and it is a key indicator of liver dysfunction. This adverse reaction underscores the importance of regular liver function monitoring when a patient is prescribed tacrine.

In cases where the patient exhibits signs of jaundice, it is crucial for healthcare providers to reassess medication use and consider alternative treatment options to minimize further harm to the patient.

Monitoring Patient Medication

Monitoring the medication of patients is an essential responsibility within healthcare, particularly in the context of dementia care. Pharmacological treatments for dementia, as is the case with tacrine, require vigilant monitoring due to the potential for serious side effects.

For tacrine, frequent liver function tests are recommended, especially in the first 18 weeks of treatment or when dosage adjustments are made. Healthcare professionals must be on the lookout for signs of liver dysfunction, such as jaundice, and other potential adverse reactions. By doing so, they can detect problems early and intervene swiftly.

Improving Medication Monitoring

Healthcare providers can use electronic health records to flag any changes in laboratory values, ensuring a timely response to potential adverse reactions. Furthermore, educating patients and their caregivers about the signs and symptoms to watch for can empower them to participate actively in the monitoring process.

Pharmacology Nursing

Pharmacology nursing focuses on the administration and management of medications, as well as the monitoring of their effectiveness and the assessment for potential side effects. Nurses play a critical role in the medication management process, especially in the complex care of dementia patients.

Nurses who are well-versed in pharmacology are key to the safe administration of drugs like tacrine. They are trained to recognize adverse reactions, provide education to patients and families about medications, and advocate for the patient if medication-related problems arise.

Educating Patients and Caregivers

Nurses also have the responsibility to educate patients and caregivers about potential side effects and the importance of adhering to prescribed medication regimens. They can offer valuable counsel and support, facilitating an understanding of how drugs like tacrine work and why it's crucial to monitor changes in patients' conditions.