LPN LPN
Pharmacology for LPN
1. The client with a new prescription for warfarin (Coumadin) is receiving teaching from the LPN/LVN. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?
- A. I will avoid eating foods high in vitamin K, like spinach and broccoli.
- B. I will take aspirin instead of acetaminophen for headaches while on this medication.
- C. I can stop taking the medication once my symptoms improve.
- D. I will double my dose if I miss a dose to catch up.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: Clients prescribed with warfarin (Coumadin) need to maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K and avoid sudden increases in foods rich in vitamin K as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication. Choice A, 'I will avoid eating foods high in vitamin K, like spinach and broccoli,' is the correct statement indicating an understanding of the medication. This choice demonstrates knowledge of the importance of consistent vitamin K intake to prevent fluctuations in warfarin's effectiveness. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect. Choice B suggests a substitution that is not advised without consulting a healthcare provider. Choice C is incorrect as stopping warfarin suddenly can lead to serious health risks. Choice D is unsafe and incorrect since doubling the dose is not the correct action if a dose is missed.
2. The client is reinforcing teaching for peripheral artery disease (PAD). Which statement by the client indicates correct understanding?
- A. I will keep my legs elevated on pillows while resting.
- B. I will avoid crossing my legs when sitting.
- C. I will wear tight compression stockings to improve circulation.
- D. I will apply heat to my legs to relieve pain and improve circulation.
Correct answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B. Crossing the legs can further impede blood flow in clients with PAD, worsening symptoms. Avoiding leg crossing helps maintain adequate blood flow and reduces the risk of complications associated with peripheral artery disease. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because elevating the legs, wearing tight compression stockings, and applying heat can exacerbate symptoms in PAD by restricting blood flow or causing potential harm.
3. The healthcare provider is preparing to administer a beta blocker to a client with hypertension. What parameter should be checked before administering the medication?
- A. Serum potassium level
- B. Apical pulse
- C. Oxygen saturation
- D. Pupil reaction to light
Correct answer: B
Rationale: Before administering a beta blocker, it is crucial to check the apical pulse. Beta blockers have the potential to slow down the heart rate, making it essential to assess the pulse rate to ensure it is within the safe range before giving the medication. Checking the serum potassium level (choice A) is important when administering certain medications, but it is not specifically required before giving a beta blocker. Oxygen saturation (choice C) and pupil reaction to light (choice D) are not directly related to monitoring parameters for beta blocker administration.
4. The nurse is preparing to administer an intravenous dose of furosemide (Lasix) to a client with heart failure. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?
- A. Hypertension
- B. Hyperkalemia
- C. Hypokalemia
- D. Hypoglycemia
Correct answer: C
Rationale: Furosemide is a loop diuretic that works by promoting the excretion of water and electrolytes, including potassium. This loss of potassium can lead to hypokalemia, which can be a potential side effect of furosemide administration. Hypokalemia can result in cardiac dysrhythmias and other complications, especially in clients with heart failure who may already have compromised cardiac function. Therefore, monitoring for signs of hypokalemia, such as muscle weakness, cardiac irregularities, and fatigue, is essential when administering furosemide. Choice A, hypertension, is incorrect because furosemide is actually used to treat hypertension by reducing excess fluid in the body. Choice B, hyperkalemia, is incorrect as furosemide causes potassium loss, leading to hypokalemia. Choice D, hypoglycemia, is unrelated to the mechanism of action of furosemide and is not a common side effect associated with its administration.
5. A client with atrial fibrillation is prescribed warfarin (Coumadin). The nurse should reinforce which dietary instruction?
- A. Avoid foods high in vitamin K.
- B. Increase intake of dairy products.
- C. Limit intake of foods high in fiber.
- D. Increase protein intake.
Correct answer: A
Rationale: The correct answer is to avoid foods high in vitamin K. Clients taking warfarin (Coumadin) should maintain a consistent intake of vitamin K to keep the medication's effectiveness stable. Foods high in vitamin K, such as leafy greens, can interfere with the anticoagulant effects of warfarin. Therefore, it is crucial for clients to avoid these foods to ensure the therapeutic effects of warfarin. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because increasing dairy products, limiting fiber intake, or increasing protein intake do not directly impact the effectiveness of warfarin therapy and are not necessary dietary modifications for clients on this medication.
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