CEA Nursing Practice Exam

What condition may be indicated by decreased reflexes, headache, and constipation?

1. Azithromycin (Zithromax) toxicity

2. Magnesium toxicity

3. Oxymetazoline (Afrin) toxicity

4. Digitalis glycosides (Digoxin) toxicity

The correct answer is: Magnesium toxicity

Decreased reflexes, headache, and constipation can be indicative of magnesium toxicity, which aligns with the symptoms mentioned. Magnesium plays a crucial role in neuromuscular function, and an excess can lead to neurological symptoms, including decreased reflexes. Headaches may occur due to electrolyte imbalances, and constipation can result from magnesium's muscle-relaxing properties affecting gastrointestinal motility. In the context of other options, azithromycin toxicity typically does not present with these specific signs—it is more associated with gastrointestinal disturbances or possible allergic reactions. Oxymetazoline, primarily a nasal decongestant, does not cause neurologic symptoms or constipation as prominent features, as its mechanism and side effects tend to differ from those associated with magnesium. Digitalis glycosides toxicity is more likely to manifest through various cardiac symptoms such as arrhythmias and gastrointestinal disturbances, rather than the combination of neurological signs and constipation noted in the question. Thus, the symptoms presented strongly correlate with magnesium toxicity, underscoring why it is the most fitting condition in this scenario.