Question

A nurse is collecting data from a client who has Parkinson's disease and is taking levodopa/carbidopa. The nurse should identify which of the following findings as an adverse effect of this medication?

A) dark urine
B) hypertension
C) increased salivation
D) bradycardia"

Answer 1

Dark urine is an adverse effect of levodopa/carbidopa, a medication used to treat Parkinson's disease, which primarily affects dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra.

Step-by-step explanation:

The nurse should identify dark urine as an adverse effect of the medication levodopa/carbidopa when treating a client with Parkinson's disease. Levodopa/carbidopa is commonly prescribed to manage the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, which is characterized by the loss of dopamine-producing neurons in the substantia nigra. The medication helps to replenish dopamine levels, thus improving motor functions. However, levodopa can be metabolized into melanin-related compounds that can darken the urine. While this side effect is generally harmless, it can be alarming to patients who are not expecting it.

Parkinson's disease can produce symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, speech changes, and rigidity of muscles due to the degeneration of neurons that release dopamine. Other symptoms include balance and posture problems, and in later stages, the disease can lead to cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety.