The client receives efavirenz (Sustiva) as treatment for acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The nurse assesses the client for which serious adverse effect?

Question

1. Cardiac arrest
2. Rash
3. Bone marrow suppression
4. Seizures

Answer 1

2
Rationale 1: Cardiac arrest is not an expected adverse effect of efavirenz (Sustiva).
Rationale 2: A serious adverse effect of efavirenz (Sustiva) is Stevens-Johnson rash, which can be life threatening.
Rationale 3: Bone marrow suppression is not an adverse effect of efavirenz (Sustiva).
Rationale 4: Seizures are not an adverse effect of efavirenz (Sustiva).
Global Rationale: A serious adverse effect of efavirenz (Sustiva) is Stevens-Johnson rash, which can be life threatening. Cardiac arrest is not an expected adverse effect of efavirenz (Sustiva). Bone marrow suppression and seizures are not adverse effects of efavirenz (Sustiva).