LPN LPN
LPN Pharmacology Assessment A
1. The client with a history of heart failure is receiving digoxin (Lanoxin). Which electrolyte imbalance increases the risk of digoxin toxicity?
- A. Hypernatremia
- B. Hypercalcemia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypomagnesemia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Hypokalemia increases the risk of digoxin toxicity as low potassium levels enhance the effects of digoxin on the heart, leading to toxicity and potential adverse effects. Hypernatremia (Choice A) is not directly associated with an increased risk of digoxin toxicity. Hypercalcemia (Choice B) does not increase the risk of digoxin toxicity. Hypomagnesemia (Choice D) can contribute to digoxin toxicity, but hypokalemia has a more significant impact on increasing the risk.
2. The nurse is preparing to administer a scheduled dose of enalapril (Vasotec) to a client with hypertension. Before administering the medication, the nurse should check which priority assessment?
- A. Heart rate
- B. Blood pressure
- C. Respiratory rate
- D. Temperature
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Before administering enalapril, an antihypertensive medication, the nurse should prioritize checking the client's blood pressure. Monitoring blood pressure helps ensure it is at an acceptable level before giving the medication, as enalapril can further lower blood pressure. This assessment is crucial in preventing potential hypotensive episodes and adverse effects associated with excessive blood pressure reduction. Heart rate, respiratory rate, and temperature are important assessments but are not the priority before administering enalapril, which primarily affects blood pressure levels.
3. A client with a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). The nurse should include which instruction in the discharge teaching?
- A. Take the medication at the same time each day
- B. Avoid green leafy vegetables in your diet
- C. Increase your intake of vitamin K-rich foods
- D. Stop the medication if you notice any bruising
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Taking warfarin at the same time each day is crucial to maintain consistent blood levels and ensure the effectiveness of the medication in preventing clot formation. Consistent timing helps in monitoring and adjusting the dosage as needed to keep the international normalized ratio (INR) within the therapeutic range to prevent clotting events or excessive bleeding. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Avoiding green leafy vegetables is a misconception; while they are high in vitamin K which antagonizes warfarin, they should not be avoided but consumed in moderation. Increasing vitamin K-rich foods can interfere with warfarin's effectiveness. Stopping the medication due to bruising can be dangerous as it may indicate a clotting problem that the medication is intended to prevent.
4. The client with a history of left-sided heart failure is exhibiting increasing shortness of breath and frothy sputum. What is the priority nursing action?
- A. Administer oxygen
- B. Encourage coughing and deep breathing
- C. Place the client in a supine position
- D. Notify the healthcare provider immediately
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Shortness of breath and frothy sputum are indicative of pulmonary edema, a serious condition that requires immediate intervention to improve oxygenation. Administering oxygen is the priority action to support the client's respiratory function and prevent further deterioration. Oxygen therapy helps increase the oxygen levels in the blood, alleviate respiratory distress, and support vital organ function. Prompt intervention with oxygen can help stabilize the client while further assessments and treatments are initiated. Encouraging coughing and deep breathing may worsen the client's condition by increasing respiratory effort. Placing the client in a supine position can further compromise breathing in a client with pulmonary edema. Notifying the healthcare provider is important but not the priority when the client's respiratory status is deteriorating.
5. A client with a diagnosis of angina pectoris is prescribed nitroglycerin. The nurse should teach the client to take the medication in which way?
- A. Take one tablet daily with breakfast
- B. Take one tablet every 5 minutes as needed, up to three times
- C. Take one tablet every hour until pain subsides
- D. Take one tablet only if pain does not subside after 30 minutes
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Nitroglycerin is a rapid-acting medication used to relieve angina pain by dilating blood vessels. The correct administration is to take one tablet every 5 minutes as needed, up to three doses. This dosing regimen helps in managing acute angina episodes effectively. Choice A is incorrect because nitroglycerin is not taken once daily. Choice C is incorrect because waiting for an hour between doses may not provide timely relief during angina attacks. Choice D is incorrect as it suggests waiting for 30 minutes before taking another dose, which could delay symptom relief in acute situations.
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