Nokea
Diphenoxylate hydrochloride and atropine sulfate (Lomotil) is prescribed for the client with ulcerative colitis. Which of the following nursing observations indicates that the drug is having a therapeutic effect?
- A. There is an absence of peristalsis.
- B. The number of diarrhea stools decreases.
- C. Cramping in the abdomen has increased.
- D. Abdominal girth size increases.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lomotil, an antidiarrheal, slows intestinal motility, reducing diarrhea frequency in ulcerative colitis. Decreased diarrhea stools (B) indicates therapeutic effect. Absent peristalsis (A), increased cramping (C), or girth (D) suggest complications or ineffectiveness.
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A male client tells his nurse that he has had an ulcer in the past and is afraid it is 'flaring up again.' The nurse begins to ask him specific questions about his symptoms. The nurse knows that a symptom that might indicate a serious complication of an ulcer is:
- A. Pain in the middle of the night
- B. A bowel movement every 3-5 days
- C. Melena
- D. Episodes of nausea and vomiting
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Clients with ulcers generally experience abdominal pain. It is common to have pain in the early morning hours with an ulcer. Constipation is not a symptom associated with ulcers and would indicate a need to look at other factors. Melena is blood in the stools. This could indicate a slow bleeding ulcer, which could result in significant amounts of blood loss over time. Nausea and vomiting may be present as a result of the ulcer, especially if it is a gastric ulcer. This does not indicate an immediate life-threatening complication.
A client is being treated for congestive heart failure. His medical regimen consists of digoxin (Lanoxin) 0.25 mg po daily and furosemide 20 mg po bid. Which laboratory test should the nurse monitor?
- A. Intake and output
- B. Calcium
- C. Potassium
- D. Magnesium
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Furosemide is a nonpotassium-sparing loop diuretic. Hypokalemia is a common side effect of furosemide and may enhance digoxin toxicity.
The nurse is providing dietary teaching for a client with hypertension. Which food should be avoided by the client on a sodium-restricted diet?
- A. Dried beans
- B. Swiss cheese
- C. Peanut butter
- D. Colby cheese
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Colby cheese is high in sodium, which should be avoided on a sodium-restricted diet to manage hypertension, unlike the other options, which are lower in sodium.
Which information should be given to the client using a TENS unit?
- A. Electrocution may occur if you use water with this unit.'
- B. Skin irritation may occur with prolonged use of the unit.'
- C. The unit can be placed anywhere on the body without fear of adverse reactions.'
- D. A cream or lotion should be applied to the skin before applying the unit.'
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Prolonged use of a TENS unit can cause skin irritation due to electrode adhesion or electrical stimulation. Electrocution is not a risk with battery-operated units, placement requires specific guidance, and lotions may interfere with electrode contact.
The client is admitted with a diagnosis of gestational diabetes. Which fetal monitoring technique is most appropriate?
- A. Non-stress test
- B. Biophysical profile
- C. Both A and B
- D. Neither A nor B
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Gestational diabetes increases fetal risks (e.g. macrosomia hypoglycemia) requiring close monitoring. Non-stress tests assess fetal heart rate and biophysical profiles evaluate fetal well-being comprehensively. Both are appropriate.