The nurse is caring for a patient who has been receiving chemotherapy for the past 4 months. The patient takes Reglan (metoclopramide) 10 mg every 4 hr as needed for nausea and vomiting. The nurse should be most concerned with which of the following patient statements?
A) "I'm losing my balance a lot and I noticed my hands are shaky."
B) "I've lost 5 pounds in the past month."
C) "I'm not sure what I'm going to do when I don't have to come in here all of the time."
D) "My kids are really struggling with the fact that I just don't have any energy anymore."

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The patient's symptoms of losing balance and shakiness may be signs of tardive dyskinesia, a potential side effect of long-term metoclopramide use. The nurse should notify the provider immediately and assess the patient further. Option B may be a possible side effect of chemotherapy or related to the patient's nausea and vomiting, but it is not as concerning as option A. Options C and D are more about the patient's emotional and social well-being rather than physical health.

The Nurse Is Caring for a Patient Who Has Been