When teaching a client with a new prescription for spironolactone, which instruction should the nurse include?
- A. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
- B. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice.
- C. Take the medication with food.
- D. Monitor for signs of hyperkalemia.
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to monitor for signs of hyperkalemia when taking spironolactone since it is a potassium-sparing diuretic. Hyperkalemia is a potential adverse effect due to the medication's mechanism of action. Advising the client to increase potassium-rich foods (Choice A) would be incorrect as it can further elevate potassium levels, which could lead to hyperkalemia. Avoiding grapefruit juice (Choice B) is not directly related to spironolactone use. Though taking the medication with food (Choice C) can help reduce gastrointestinal upset, it is not the most critical instruction when initiating spironolactone therapy.
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A client with a history of chronic heart failure is being discharged. Which instruction should the nurse include in the discharge teaching?
- A. Weigh yourself daily and report a weight gain of 2 pounds or more in a day.
- B. Restrict fluid intake to 2000 mL per day.
- C. Increase your salt intake to prevent electrolyte imbalance.
- D. Exercise vigorously at least three times a week.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to weigh yourself daily and report a weight gain of 2 pounds or more in a day. This instruction is crucial because daily weights help in early detection of fluid retention, a common complication in heart failure. Monitoring weight is essential for managing heart failure and preventing exacerbations. Choice B is incorrect because fluid restriction may be necessary in some cases of heart failure, but a general limit of 2000 mL per day is not appropriate without individual assessment. Choice C is incorrect as increasing salt intake can worsen fluid retention and exacerbate heart failure symptoms. Choice D is incorrect because while exercise is beneficial for heart health, vigorous exercise may not be suitable for all heart failure patients and should be tailored to their specific condition.
A patient develops hepatotoxicity from chronic acetaminophen use. The primary care NP may recommend:
- A. milk thistle.
- B. chondroitin.
- C. coenzyme Q.
- D. glucosamine.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is A because milk thistle protects the liver from hepatotoxins like acetaminophen. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they lack this hepatoprotective effect.
Patient education for the elderly should include:
- A. Explanation of drug purpose
- B. Instructions for safe administration
- C. Potential side effects
- D. All of the above
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: Choice D is correct because explaining purpose (improves adherence), safe administration (prevents errors), and side effects (enhances safety) are all key for elderly education, per geriatric care. Choice A is incorrect alone as it's one aspect. Choice B is wrong by itself because administration is just part. Choice C is incorrect solo since side effects are only one element.
A client with a history of heart failure is being discharged with a prescription for digoxin (Lanoxin). The nurse should include which instruction in the discharge teaching?
- A. Take your pulse before each dose and hold the medication if your pulse is below 60 beats per minute.
- B. Increase your fluid intake to at least 3 liters per day.
- C. Report any weight loss of more than 2 pounds in a week.
- D. Take the medication with meals to avoid gastrointestinal upset.
Correct Answer: A
Rationale: The correct instruction for discharge teaching regarding digoxin (Lanoxin) is to advise the client to take their pulse before each dose and to hold the medication if their pulse is below 60 beats per minute. Digoxin can cause bradycardia, so monitoring the pulse is crucial to prevent potential complications. Choice B is incorrect because excessive fluid intake can lead to fluid overload, worsening heart failure. Choice C is not directly related to digoxin therapy. Choice D is inaccurate as digoxin is usually taken on an empty stomach to facilitate absorption.
A woman who is pregnant develops gestational diabetes. The NP's initial action is to:
- A. prescribe an oral antidiabetic agent.
- B. give her information about diet and exercise.
- C. begin treating her with daily insulin injections.
- D. reassure her that her glucose levels will return to normal after pregnancy.
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B because diet and exercise are the initial management for gestational diabetes. Choice A is incorrect (oral agents lack sufficient safety data). Choice C is wrong (insulin isn’t first-line). Choice D is inaccurate (reassurance alone doesn’t address current needs).