Question

The nurse is preparing to administer estradiol (Estrace) to a postmenopausal woman. What is the priority nursing implication for this medication?

Options:

Assess the patient's blood pressure and monitor for signs of hypertension during the course of treatment.

Educate the patient on the importance of maintaining a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D to prevent bone loss.

Inquire about the patient's history of thromboembolic disorders and monitor for signs of blood clot formation.

Advise the patient to limit fluid intake to prevent potential electrolyte imbalances associated with estradiol.

Answer 1

When administering estradiol to a postmenopausal woman, it's essential to assess the patient's risk of blood clots by inquiring about their history of thromboembolic disorders and monitoring for signs of clot formation.

Step-by-step explanation:

The priority nursing implication when administering estradiol (Estrace) to a postmenopausal woman is to inquire about the patient's history of thromboembolic disorders and monitor for signs of blood clot formation. This is critical because hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which includes treatments like estradiol, has been associated with an increased risk of blood clots, in addition to other potential side effects such as stroke, heart attack, and certain types of cancers. While HRT can provide benefits like protection from osteoporosis and alleviation of menopausal symptoms, the risks, particularly of thromboembolic events, make it imperative that health professionals closely monitor patients receiving this therapy for signs of potential complications.