Adult Health Med Surg NCLEX Test Bank Related

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A nurse is teaching a client about taking antihistamines. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching plan? Select all that apply.

  • A. Operating machinery and driving may be dangerous while taking antihistamines.
  • B. Committaking antihistamines even if nasal infection develops.
  • C. The effect of antihistamines is not felt until a day later.
  • D. Do not use alcohol with antihistamines.
  • E. Increase fluid intake to 2,000 mL/day.
Correct Answer: A,D,E

Rationale: Antihistamines have an anticholinergic action and a drying effect and reduce nasal, salivary, and lacrimal gland hypersecretion (runny nose, tearing, and itching eyes). An adverse effect is drowsiness, so operating machinery and driving are not recommended. There is also an additive depressant effect when alcohol is combined with antihistamines, so alcohol should be avoided during antihistamine use. The client should ensure adequate fluid intake of at least 8 glasses per day due to the drying effect of the drug.