Nursing Elites

1. A client has a new prescription for Alendronate. Which of the following instructions should be included in the discharge teaching?

• A. Take this medication at bedtime.
• B. Remain upright for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• C. Take this medication with food.
• D. Increase your intake of calcium-rich foods.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to remain upright for 30 minutes after taking Alendronate. This medication can cause esophageal irritation, and maintaining an upright position for at least 30 minutes helps prevent complications such as esophagitis or esophageal ulcers. Choice A is incorrect because Alendronate should be taken in the morning on an empty stomach. Choice C is incorrect because Alendronate should be taken on an empty stomach, preferably 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day. Choice D is incorrect because while calcium intake is important, it is not a specific instruction related to taking Alendronate.

2. A client is prescribed Spironolactone. Which of the following laboratory findings should the nurse monitor and report to the provider?

• A. Sodium level of 138 mEq/L
• B. Potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L
• C. Chloride level of 100 mEq/L
• D. Calcium level of 9.5 mg/dL

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic, causing potassium retention, potentially leading to elevated potassium levels. A potassium level of 5.2 mEq/L is above the normal range (3.5-5.0 mEq/L), indicating hyperkalemia, a serious condition. Elevated potassium levels can lead to life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Monitoring and reporting high potassium levels promptly to the healthcare provider are crucial to prevent potential complications. Sodium, chloride, and calcium levels are not directly influenced by Spironolactone, making choices A, C, and D incorrect.

3. A client has a new prescription for Calcitonin-salmon for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Swallow tablets on an empty stomach with plenty of water.
• B. Watch for skin rash and redness when applying calcitonin-salmon topically.
• C. Mix the liquid medication with juice and take it after meals.
• D. Alternate nostrils each time calcitonin-salmon is inhaled.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Calcitonin-salmon is commonly administered intranasally for postmenopausal osteoporosis. To ensure optimal absorption, the client should alternate nostrils daily when inhaling the medication. This practice helps prevent irritation and promotes consistent drug delivery through both nostrils. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because calcitonin-salmon is not swallowed as a tablet, applied topically, or mixed with juice; it is usually administered intranasally.

4. A client has a prescription for Desmopressin for the treatment of Diabetes Insipidus. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Decrease fluid intake at the start of treatment.
• B. Monitor for nocturia.
• C. Report a weight loss of 0.5 kg (1.1 lb) per week.
• D. Expect permanent polyuria with this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Desmopressin is a medication used to reduce diuresis in clients with diabetes insipidus. To prevent water intoxication, clients should be advised to decrease fluid intake at the beginning of treatment. This instruction helps to balance fluid levels in the body and prevent potential complications associated with excessive fluid intake while on Desmopressin therapy. Monitoring for signs of fluid retention, such as weight gain, and adjusting fluid intake accordingly are essential components of client education when initiating treatment with Desmopressin.

5. A client presents in the Emergency Department with a suspected MI. Which medication should NOT be given as soon as possible?

• A. Clopidogrel (Plavix)
• B. Morphine
• C. Aspirin (ASA)
• D. Metoprolol (Lopressor)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In the setting of a suspected myocardial infarction (MI), the priority medications to administer as soon as possible include aspirin (ASA) and possibly morphine to manage pain and anxiety. Clopidogrel (Plavix) is not typically administered immediately in the emergency setting for MI management. Metoprolol (Lopressor) is indicated after aspirin administration and stabilization of the patient. Therefore, in this scenario, clopidogrel should NOT be given as a first-line medication for a suspected MI.

Similar Questions