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A nurse is reviewing the laboratory results of a client who has AIDS and is taking amphotericin B for a fungal infection. The nurse should identify that which of the following values is an indication of an adverse effect of the medication?

A) Elevated liver enzymes
B) Decreased creatinine
C) Increased potassium levels
D) Decreased magnesium levels

User Fu Xu
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

Elevated liver enzymes (Option A) indicate an adverse effect of amphotericin B in a client with AIDS and a fungal infection. Amphotericin B can cause nephrotoxicity and electrolyte imbalances but is also associated with hepatotoxicity, especially when used with flucytosine which is known for liver toxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question relates to a client with AIDS who is taking amphotericin B for a fungal infection and the identification of potential adverse effects of the medication via laboratory results. The correct answer to the question is an indication of an adverse effect of the medication, which is Elevated liver enzymes (Option A). Amphotericin B is known for its nephrotoxicity, which can lead to renal dysfunction manifested by increased serum creatinine levels. It can also cause electrolyte imbalances such as hypokalemia (decreased potassium levels) and hypomagnesemia (decreased magnesium levels), not an increase in these levels.

Therefore, decreased creatinine (Option B) would not be indicative of nephrotoxicity, and increased potassium levels (Option C) are contrary to the usual effect of amphotericin B. Decreased magnesium levels (Option D) could be suggestive of amphotericin B toxicity, but the presence of hepatotoxicity (liver toxicity) is directly associated with the combined use of amphotericin B and flucytosine, as flucytosine is known to cause liver damage. Clinicians must balance the risks and benefits when administering amphotericin B, especially in patients with AIDS who are at higher risk for complications due to their immunocompromised state.

User NIrav Modi
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