Question

A client who had a stroke is receiving clopidogrel (Plavix). Which adverse effect does the nurse monitor for in this client?

A. New-onset confusion
B. Repeated syncope
C. Abdominal distention
D. Spontaneous ecchymosis

Answer 1

Nurses monitoring a stroke patient on clopidogrel should watch for signs of spontaneous ecchymosis, which is an expected adverse effect of the medication due to its antiplatelet properties.

Step-by-step explanation:

A client who had a stroke is receiving clopidogrel (Plavix). When monitoring a patient on clopidogrel, the nurse should look for signs of spontaneous ecchymosis. Ecchymosis is a common adverse effect implying that the medication is affecting the blood's ability to clot, which may present as bruising or bleeding without significant trauma. This is consistent with clopidogrel's function as an antiplatelet agent, which is intended to prevent clotting in patients who have had cardiovascular events, such as ischemic strokes, heart attacks, or TIA (transient ischemic attacks).

Other potential adverse effects such as new-onset confusion, repeated syncope, and abdominal distention might be related to different medical issues but are not typically associated with the primary action of clopidogrel.