Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Full-length
An older client has been prescribed casanthranol on a long-term basis to treat constipation. The nurse determines that which laboratory finding is a result of the side/adverse effects of this medication?
Correct answer
C
Rationale
Hypokalemia can result from long-term use of casanthranol, which is a laxative. The medication stimulates peristalsis and alters fluid and electrolyte transport, thus helping fluid to accumulate in the colon. The normal range for potassium is 3.5 to 5.0 mEq/L (3.5 to 5.0 mmol/L). The normal range for sodium is 135 to 145 mEq/L (135 to 145 mmol/L). The remaining options all suggest normal values.