15. The most important nursing assessment to make before a client is started on indomethacin is:
. Asking if there is a history of sulfa allergies.
. Asking if there is a history of gastric bleeding.
. Checking blood pressure.
. Checking blood sugar.
Test-Taking Tip
Only one option addresses a side effect of the drug.
Content Area: Adult Health, Pharmacology; Integrated Process: Nursing Process, Assessment; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Physiological Integrity/Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies/Medication Administration
.
Answer 1 is incorrect because indomethacin is not a sulfa-based drug and may be used safely in clients with sulfa allergies. Answer 2 is correct because a side effect of indomethacin is gastrointestinal bleeding. This risk is greater in clients with history of GI bleeding. Answer 3 is incorrect because, even though indomethacin can worsen hypertension, a greater risk is hemorrhage. Answer 4 is incorrect because indomethacin does not affect blood sugar.