A patient with endometriosis is being treated with the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist leuprolide (Lupron Depot). A nurse is teaching the patient about the drug
Which statement by the patient indicates understanding of the teaching?
a. "I can continue to take the medication if I get pregnant."
b. "I can expect the medication to cure my symptoms."
c. "I may have menopausal-like symptoms when taking this medication."
d. "I will need to take the medication for several years."
ANS: C
Because the GnRH agonists deprive the ovary of the stimulation to produce estrogen, women may experience symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes, vaginal dryness, decreased libido, mood changes, and headache. GnRH agonists are teratogenic and should not be used during pregnancy. The medication does not produce a cure; symptoms return in up to 50% of women after discontinuation of the drug. GnRH agonists should be discontinued after 6 months of treatment because of the risk of osteoporosis.
You might also like to view...
The nurse is presenting an in-service at a children's unit on hyperactivity. The nurse is told that a 6-year-old on the unit is being treated with methylphenidate (Ritalin)
The presenting nurse talks about discharge teaching for this patient and the importance of monitoring what? A) Long bone growth B) Visual acuity C) Weight and complete blood count D) Urea and nitrogen levels
The nurse providing care to a client with an elevated temperature would include in the plan of care:
1. Apply warm blankets. 2. Provide dry clothing. 3. Administer warm intravenous fluids. 4. Administer antipyretic medication.
A client with a terminal illness refuses pain medication. The nurse realizes that the client may decline pain medication for which of the following reasons? (Select all that apply.)
1. Fear that the pain means the disease is worse 2. Insufficient health plan benefits to pay for the medication 3. Cultural background prevents the use of pain medication 4. Fear of becoming addicted to pain medication 5. Fear of side effects 6. Concern about being labeled as a "bad" client
The nurse teaches the patient about digoxin (Lanoxin) toxicity and determines that learning has occurred when the patient makes which statement(s)?
1. "I should limit my fluids while taking this medication." 2. "It is okay to keep taking my ginseng." 3. "If I have nausea, it means I must stop the medication." 4. "I can drink orange juice every morning." 5. "I must check my pulse and not take the medication if it is less than 60."