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Which patient symptom indicates medication toxicity?
Asked on Dec 09, 2025
Answer
Recognizing medication toxicity is crucial for ensuring patient safety and effective pharmacological management. Symptoms of medication toxicity can vary depending on the specific medication involved, but they often include unexpected or severe reactions that deviate from the expected therapeutic effects.
Example Concept: Medication toxicity occurs when drug levels exceed the therapeutic range, leading to adverse effects. Symptoms may include confusion, nausea, vomiting, arrhythmias, or seizures, depending on the medication. Monitoring drug levels, assessing for side effects, and evaluating patient response are essential nursing responsibilities to prevent toxicity.
Additional Comment:
- Always assess for unexpected changes in vital signs, mental status, or laboratory values.
- Use the "rights" of medication administration to prevent errors: right patient, drug, dose, route, time, and documentation.
- Report and document any signs of toxicity promptly to the healthcare provider.
- Consider the patient's renal and hepatic function, as these can affect drug metabolism and excretion.
- NCLEX Tip: Prioritize safety-first by recognizing early signs of toxicity and intervening appropriately.
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