A client who is taking baclofen (Lioresal) for muscle spasms due to a spinal cord injury that occurred 5 years ago is hospitalized with pyelonephritis 2

Question

The client is receiving ciprofloxacin IV for the infection and phenazopyridine (Pyridium) for the bladder discomfort. None of the medications the client takes at home have been continued during the hospitalization. The nurse should monitor this client for which condition?
1. Contractures of the hands and feet
2. Irritable tendon reflexes and scissoring movement of the lower extremities
3. Diminished kidney function
4. Fever and seizures, or hallucinations

Answer 1

Correct Answer: 4
Rationale 1: There is no indication that contractures of the hands and feet might occur.
Rationale 2: There is no indication that irritable tendon reflexes or scissoring of the lower extremities might occur.
Rationale 3: While it is important to monitor for urine output, there is nothing in the scenario to indicate that there is diminished kidney function.
Rationale 4: Abrupt discontinuation following prolonged therapy with baclofen can cause high fever, seizures, severe rebound muscle spasticity, and hallucinations.
Global Rationale: Abrupt discontinuation following prolonged therapy with baclofen can cause high fever, seizures, severe rebound muscle spasticity, and hallucinations. There is no indication that contractures of the hands and feet might occur or that irritable tendon reflexes or scissoring of the lower extremities might occur. While it is important to monitor for urine output, there is nothing in the scenario to indicate that there is diminished kidney function.