Difficulty: Medium
Average Score: 80%
Simulated
A client who has just experienced a pulmonary embolism is administered alteplase (Activase). Which of the following side effects associated with this medication would the nurse assess for?
Correct answer
D
Rationale
The correct answer is D: Internal bleeding. Alteplase is a thrombolytic medication that works by dissolving blood clots. This action can increase the risk of bleeding, including internal bleeding. The nurse should monitor for signs of bleeding such as sudden weakness, dizziness, severe headache, or blood in the urine or stool. Pancytopenia (choice A) is a potential side effect of other medications but not typically associated with alteplase. Hypertension (choice B) and hypokalemia (choice C) are not direct side effects of alteplase. Therefore, the nurse should primarily focus on assessing for internal bleeding in a client receiving alteplase after a pulmonary embolism.