Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI Quizlet Related

Review Medical Surgical Assignment Exam HESI Quizlet related questions and content

The healthcare provider prescribes the nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) naproxen (Naprosyn) 500 mg PO twice a day for a client with osteoarthritis. During a follow-up visit one month later, the client tells the nurse, 'The pills don't seem to be working. They are not helping the pain at all.' Which factor should influence the nurse's response?

  • A. Noncompliance is probably impacting the optimum medication effectiveness.
  • B. Drug dosage is inadequate and needs to be increased to four times a day.
  • C. The drug needs 4 to 6 weeks to reach therapeutic levels in the bloodstream.
  • D. NSAID response is variable, and another NSAID may be more effective.
Correct Answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is D. NSAID response can vary among individuals, and sometimes a different NSAID may be more effective for a specific client. In this case, since the current NSAID (naproxen) is not providing pain relief, it is reasonable to consider switching to another NSAID. Choice A is incorrect because there is no information provided to suggest noncompliance. Choice B is incorrect as increasing the dosage without assessing the response may lead to unnecessary side effects. Choice C is incorrect because although it may take time for NSAIDs to reach therapeutic levels, lack of pain relief after a month is a valid reason to consider changing the medication rather than waiting longer.