Which adverse effects associated with levodopa therapy would support the nursing diagnosis risk for injury?
a. Nausea and vomiting
b. Orthostatic hypotension
c. Anorexia and depression
d. Tachycardia and palpitations
ANS: B
When initiating levodopa therapy, orthostatic hypotension may occur. Although generally mild, patients may experience dizziness and weakness. Symptoms usually resolve within 1 or 2 weeks once tolerance is developed to the levodopa therapy. Orthostatic hypotension increases the risk for injury in Parkinson's patients because they are also experiencing alterations in gait patterns. Although nausea, vomiting, anorexia, and depression are adverse effects of levodopa, they do not contribute to a risk for falling. Tachycardia and palpitations are not common adverse effects of levodopa.
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