Question

A client has been taking isoniazid for 1½ months. The client complains to the nurse about numbness, paresthesias, and tingling in the extremities. The nurse interprets that the client is experiencing which problem?

1) Hypercalcemia
2) Peripheral neuritis
3) Small blood vessel spasm
4) Impaired peripheral circulation

Answer 1

The client taking isoniazid and experiencing numbness and tingling is likely dealing with peripheral neuritis, a side effect of this medication's neurotoxicity.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client taking isoniazid for tuberculosis for 1½ months and complaining of numbness, paresthesias, and tingling in the extremities is likely experiencing peripheral neuritis, also known as peripheral neuropathy. This condition is a recognized side effect of isoniazid and is due to its neurotoxic effects, which can lead to a deficiency in vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and subsequent damage to peripheral nerves. The other options listed, such as hypercalcemia, small blood vessel spasm, and impaired peripheral circulation, do not typically present with these symptoms.