Question

A nurse is collecting data from a client who has been taking levodopa/carbidopa. Which of the following findings should indicate to the nurse that the medication is effective?

a) Increased tremors
b) Worsening muscle rigidity
c) Improved balance and coordination
d) Slurred speech

Answer 1

The effectiveness of levodopa/carbidopa in treating Parkinson's disease is indicated by improved balance and coordination, as it helps replenish dopamine in the brain to control muscle movement.

Step-by-step explanation:

A nurse is collecting data from a client who has been taking levodopa/carbidopa. The effectiveness of the medication for treating Parkinson's disease should be indicated by improved balance and coordination. This improvement is significant because Parkinson's disease can produce symptoms such as tremors, slowed movement, balance and posture problems, rigid muscles, and changes in speech. Levodopa/carbidopa works to replenish the decreased dopamine levels in the brain due to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra, which helps control muscle movement. Hence, the medication aims at alleviating motor symptoms and improving patients' quality of life.