Nursing Elites

1. A client is being educated about the use of sertraline (Zoloft) for depression. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should take the medication with a high-protein meal.
• B. I may experience dizziness when getting up quickly.
• C. I might notice a decrease in my sex drive.
• D. I should report any thoughts of self-harm to my healthcare provider.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The statement 'I should take the medication with a high-protein meal' indicates a need for further teaching as sertraline (Zoloft) should not be taken with a high-protein meal due to potential interference with medication absorption. Choices B, C, and D are correct statements associated with the use of sertraline for depression. It is common to experience dizziness when quickly getting up, notice a decrease in sex drive, and important to report any thoughts of self-harm to the healthcare provider while on this medication.

2. A client with hypertension is prescribed clonidine (Catapres) transdermal patch. Which statement by the client indicates an understanding of the medication?

• A. I should change the patch daily.
• B. I should remove the old patch before applying a new one.
• C. I should avoid alcohol consumption while using this patch.
• D. I should apply the patch to different sites each time.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. The client should remove the old clonidine (Catapres) patch before applying a new one to prevent overdose. The patch is typically changed every 7 days. Avoiding alcohol consumption is important as it can potentiate the sedative effects of clonidine. It is recommended to rotate application sites to prevent skin irritation and ensure optimal drug absorption.

3. After administering acetylcysteine (Mucomyst), 20% solution diluted in 0.9% normal saline by nebulizer, the nurse should have which item available for potential use?

• A. Ambu bag
• B. Intubation tray
• C. Nasogastric tube
• D. Suction equipment

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Acetylcysteine is administered via inhalation as a mucolytic. It helps liquefy secretions, making it easier for the client to clear them. However, in some cases, the increased volume of liquefied secretions may be challenging for the client to manage, leading to the potential need for suction equipment to assist in clearing the airway. Therefore, the nurse should have suction equipment available after administering acetylcysteine to address any issues related to excessive secretions.

4. A client is taking levothyroxine (Synthroid). The nurse instructs the client to notify the health care provider (HCP) if which of the following occurs?

• A. Fatigue
• B. Tremors
• C. Cold intolerance
• D. Excessively dry skin

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Tremors are a sign of excessive doses of levothyroxine, indicating hyperthyroidism. It is important for the client to report tremors to the healthcare provider to prevent complications associated with overdosing on levothyroxine.

5. Salicylic acid is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of psoriasis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that which of the following would indicate the presence of systemic toxicity from this medication?

• A. Tinnitus
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Constipation
• D. Decreased respirations

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tinnitus. Salicylic acid can lead to systemic toxicity, known as salicylism, which may manifest with symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, hyperventilation, and mental disturbances. Tinnitus is a common early sign of salicylism and should be monitored closely by the nurse to prevent further complications.

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