Nursing Elites

1. A client with deep vein thrombosis has been on heparin continuous infusion for 5 days. The provider prescribes warfarin PO without discontinuing the heparin. The client asks the nurse why both anticoagulants are necessary. Which of the following statements should the nurse make?

• A. Warfarin takes several days to work, so the IV heparin will be used until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level.
• B. I will call the provider to get a prescription for discontinuing the IV heparin today.
• C. Both heparin and warfarin work together to dissolve the clots.
• D. The IV heparin increases the effects of the warfarin and decreases the length of your hospital stay.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because warfarin takes several days to reach a therapeutic level and exert its full anticoagulant effect. During this time, the IV heparin is continued to prevent clotting until the warfarin is effective. Both medications are used together temporarily for this reason. Discontinuing heparin prematurely can increase the risk of clot formation. Therefore, the nurse should explain to the client that the IV heparin will be continued until the warfarin reaches a therapeutic level.

2. A healthcare professional is caring for a group of clients receiving antimicrobial therapy. Which of the following clients should the professional plan to monitor for manifestations of antibiotic toxicity?

• A. An adolescent client with a sinus infection
• B. An older adult client with prostatitis
• C. A client who is postpartum with mastitis
• D. A middle-aged client with a urinary tract infection

Correct answer: B

Rationale: An older adult client with prostatitis who is receiving antibiotics should be monitored for toxicity due to age-related reductions in medication metabolism and excretion. Older adults are more susceptible to antibiotic toxicity, making them a high-risk group for adverse effects.

3. Which of the following is not directly related to the drug toxicity of Ibuprofen?

• A. Nausea
• B. Renal dysfunction
• C. Anemia
• D. Muscle wasting

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Ibuprofen is known to cause adverse effects such as nausea, renal dysfunction, and anemia. However, muscle wasting is not a common toxicity associated with Ibuprofen use. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

4. When teaching a client with a new prescription for nitroglycerin patches, which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Apply the patch at the same time every day.
• B. Rotate the application site daily.
• C. Remove the patch for 12 hours each day.
• D. Cut the patch in half if needed.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with a new prescription for nitroglycerin patches is to rotate the application site daily. This is important to prevent skin irritation and ensure optimal absorption of the medication. Applying the patch at the same time every day (Choice A) is not necessary for nitroglycerin patches. Removing the patch for 12 hours each day (Choice C) would disrupt the continuous delivery of medication. Cutting the patch in half (Choice D) can alter the dose and is not recommended unless directed by a healthcare provider.

5. When teaching a client with a new prescription for Lisinopril, which instruction should the nurse include?

• A. Take the medication with food.
• B. Expect a persistent, dry cough.
• C. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
• D. Take the medication at bedtime.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B: 'Expect a persistent, dry cough.' Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, commonly causes a persistent, dry cough as a side effect. This should be reported to the healthcare provider if it becomes bothersome. It is essential for the nurse to educate the client about this potential side effect so the client is aware and can seek appropriate guidance if needed. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect. Taking Lisinopril with food is not required. Increasing potassium-rich foods is not a specific instruction for Lisinopril, and taking the medication at bedtime is not a typical recommendation associated with this medication.

Similar Questions