The practical nurse administers lactulose to a client. Which client outcome would indicate a therapeutic response?
- A. An increase in urine output
- B. Two to three soft stools per day
- C. Absence of nausea
- D. Decreased serum potassium
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: Lactulose is a type of laxative that works by preventing the absorption of ammonia in the colon, leading to increased water absorption in the stool and softening of the stool. The therapeutic response to lactulose is indicated by the passage of two to three soft stools per day, showing that the medication is effectively promoting bowel movements.
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An older adult with iron deficiency anemia is being discharged with iron supplements, which information should the nurse include in the discharge?
- A. Take the tablet with a daily multivitamin
- B. Crush the tablet and mix it with pudding
- C. Bedtime is the best time to take the tablet
- D. Wait 2 hours after meals to take the tablet
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is to wait 2 hours after meals before taking the iron tablet. This is important to ensure better absorption and efficacy of the iron supplement. Taking the tablet with a daily multivitamin (Choice A) may interfere with iron absorption due to interactions with other minerals. Crushing the tablet and mixing it with pudding (Choice B) can alter the effectiveness of the medication. While bedtime (Choice C) may be convenient, waiting after meals is crucial for optimal iron absorption.
In the emergency department, a child is admitted for accidental ingestion of a poison. The practical nurse (PN) should know that inducing vomiting is recommended for which child?
- A. An 8-month-old who ingested four to six ibuprofen tablets
- B. A 3-year-old who drank an unknown amount of charcoal lighter fluid
- C. A 16-month-old who ingested 2 ounces of acetaminophen elixir
- D. A 2-year-old who ate a handful of automatic dishwasher detergent
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: Failed to generate a rationale of 500+ characters after 5 retries.
A client is prescribed metoprolol. The nurse should monitor for which common side effect of this medication?
- A. Dizziness
- B. Fatigue
- C. Orthostatic hypotension
- D. Headache
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A: Dizziness. Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, can lead to dizziness as a common side effect due to its mechanism of action in reducing heart rate and blood pressure. This effect can cause a sensation of lightheadedness or unsteadiness, particularly when standing up quickly. While fatigue, orthostatic hypotension, and headache are potential side effects of metoprolol, dizziness is commonly observed and should be closely monitored by the nurse to ensure patient safety.
A client with diabetes mellitus type 2 is prescribed pioglitazone. The nurse should monitor for which potential adverse effect?
- A. Weight gain
- B. Liver toxicity
- C. Kidney stones
- D. Bone fractures
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B, liver toxicity. Pioglitazone is known to cause liver toxicity, so it is essential for the nurse to monitor the client's liver function while on this medication. Monitoring liver function tests can help detect any signs of liver damage early, allowing for timely intervention to prevent serious complications.
A client with a diagnosis of depression is prescribed escitalopram. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?
- A. I should take this medication in the morning with food.
- B. This medication may take 1 to 4 weeks to notice improvement in symptoms.
- C. I can stop taking this medication once I feel better.
- D. This medication might make me feel drowsy.
Correct Answer: C
Rationale: It is crucial for clients to understand that they should not discontinue escitalopram abruptly, even if they start feeling better. Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to withdrawal symptoms or a relapse of depression. It is essential to complete the full course of treatment as prescribed by the healthcare provider to ensure the best outcomes and prevent potential complications.