Pharmacological and Parenteral TherapiesQuestion 156 of 2368
An older adult takes an NSAID daily. Which finding should the nurse report as an early sign of a serious adverse effect?
- Constipation
- Dry cough
- Increased appetite
- Melena
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Correct answer: Melena
Older adults taking NSAIDs are at risk for gastrointestinal bleeding, and melena is an early sign.
Source: Nursing Fundamentals, 2nd edition (Open RN, Chippewa Valley Technical College, 2024), Comfort: Evaluation. Licensed under CC BY 4.0.
Practice the topic "Pharmacological and Parenteral Therapies"Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026