The nurse is caring for a patient who receives theophylline, which has a narrow therapeutic index. The patient has been receiving cimetidine but will stop taking that drug in 2 days. In 2 days, the nurse will observe the patient closely for:

Question

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Cimetidine inhibits the metabolism of theophylline, leading to increased plasma levels of theophylline. Therefore, stopping cimetidine will result in decreased plasma levels of theophylline, which may lead to increased effectiveness of theophylline. Theophylline has a narrow therapeutic index, which means that small changes in plasma levels can lead to significant clinical effects. Therefore, the nurse should closely observe the patient for signs of drug toxicity or adverse effects as the plasma levels of theophylline change.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Receives Theophylline