A client has a prescription to take guaifenesin (Humibid) every 4 hours, as needed. The nurse determines that the client understands the most effective use of this medication if the client states that he or she will:
- A. Watch for irritability as a side effect.
- B. Take the tablet with a full glass of water.
- C. Take an extra dose if the cough is accompanied by fever.
- D. Crush the sustained-release tablet if immediate relief is needed.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to help loosen mucus and make coughs more productive. Taking it with a full glass of water helps decrease the viscosity of secretions, making it easier to expel mucus from the respiratory tract. It is important not to crush sustained-release tablets, as this can alter the intended release of the medication and lead to potential adverse effects.
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The client with breast cancer is receiving cyclophosphamide (Neosar). The nurse is reinforcing medication instructions and advises the client to:
- A. Take the medication with food.
- B. Increase fluid intake to 2000 to 3000 mL daily.
- C. Decrease sodium intake while taking the medication.
- D. Increase potassium intake while taking the medication.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is to increase fluid intake to 2000 to 3000 mL daily. Cyclophosphamide can cause hemorrhagic cystitis as a toxic effect. By increasing fluid intake, the client can help prevent this complication by promoting frequent urination, which reduces the concentration of the drug and its metabolites in the bladder. This dilution effect can help reduce the risk of bladder toxicity.
A client is taking levothyroxine (Synthroid). The nurse instructs the client to notify the health care provider (HCP) if which of the following occurs?
- A. Fatigue
- B. Tremors
- C. Cold intolerance
- D. Excessively dry skin
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
A client with a history of chronic heart failure is prescribed spironolactone (Aldactone). Which of the following statements indicates that the client understands the medication teaching?
- A. I will avoid potassium-rich foods.
- B. I will not use a salt substitute.
- C. I will monitor my weight daily.
- D. I will increase my fluid intake as prescribed.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct statement is 'I will avoid potassium-rich foods.' Spironolactone (Aldactone) is a potassium-sparing diuretic, which can lead to hyperkalemia if potassium intake is not regulated. Therefore, avoiding potassium-rich foods is crucial to prevent this complication. Using a salt substitute can also increase potassium levels. Monitoring weight daily is essential in heart failure management, but it is not specific to spironolactone. Increasing fluid intake as prescribed is generally recommended for heart failure management but is not directly related to spironolactone use.
A client with a prescription to take theophylline (Theo-24) daily has been given medication instructions by the nurse. The nurse determines that the client needs further information about the medication if the client states that he or she will:
- A. Drink at least 2 L of fluid per day.
- B. Take the daily dose at bedtime.
- C. Avoid changing brands of the medication without health care provider (HCP) approval.
- D. Avoid over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medications unless approved by the HCP.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Taking theophylline at bedtime is inappropriate because it can cause insomnia. The medication should be taken early in the morning to avoid disrupting sleep patterns. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the timing of the medication to achieve optimal therapeutic effects.
A client is receiving morphine sulfate subcutaneously for pain. Because morphine sulfate has been prescribed for this client, which nursing action would be included in the plan of care?
- A. Encourage fluid intake.
- B. Monitor the client's temperature.
- C. Maintain the client in a supine position.
- D. Encourage the client to cough and deep breathe.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Morphine sulfate suppresses the cough reflex, which can lead to the retention of secretions in the lungs. Encouraging the client to cough and deep breathe helps prevent pneumonia by clearing the airways of any accumulated secretions. This intervention is crucial in clients receiving morphine sulfate to maintain optimal respiratory function.