Question

a nurse is caring for a client who is treating rheumatoid arthritis by taking etanercept. the nurse should monitor the client for which of the following indications of a serious adverse reaction to the medication?

• excessive salivation
• increased thirst
• blood in the urine
• shortness of breath

Explanation:

Etanercept is a biologic used for rheumatoid arthritis. A serious adverse reaction can be an allergic or hypersensitivity reaction, which can cause respiratory distress like shortness of breath. Excessive salivation is not typical, increased thirst may relate to diabetes/fluid issues not etanercept, blood in urine is more renal - related and not a common serious adverse of etanercept.

Answer:

D. Shortness of breath