a nurse is teaching a client who has a new prescription for nitroglycerin sublingual tablets which of the following instructions should the nurse incl

ATI RN

ATI Pharmacology Proctored Exam

1. A client has a new prescription for nitroglycerin sublingual tablets. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Take one tablet at the first sign of chest pain.
B. If pain is not relieved, take another tablet in 10 minutes.
C. You can take up to five tablets in 15 minutes.
D. Swallow the tablet with water.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with a new prescription for nitroglycerin sublingual tablets is to take one tablet at the first sign of chest pain. If the pain persists after 5 minutes, the client should call 911 and take a second tablet. Choice A is correct because taking one tablet at the onset of chest pain helps to relieve symptoms by dilating blood vessels and improving blood flow to the heart. Choices B and C are incorrect as they suggest taking multiple tablets without waiting for the initial dose to take effect, which can lead to hypotension and other adverse effects. Choice D is incorrect as nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should not be swallowed but instead placed under the tongue for rapid absorption.

2. What is the therapeutic use of Alprazolam?

A. Preventing thrombus formation
B. Relief of anxiety
C. Decreasing the risk of stroke
D. Increasing urinary output

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The therapeutic use of Alprazolam is for the relief of anxiety. Alprazolam belongs to a class of medications known as benzodiazepines, which are commonly prescribed to manage anxiety disorders and panic attacks. It works by enhancing the effects of a natural chemical in the body (GABA) to produce a calming effect on the brain and nerves, thereby alleviating symptoms of anxiety.

3. What is one therapeutic use for nitroglycerin?

A. Relief or prevention of anginal attacks
B. Diuresis and mobilization of excess fluid
C. Decreasing nausea and vomiting
D. Relief of anxiety

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Nitroglycerin is primarily used for the relief or prevention of anginal attacks. It works by dilating blood vessels, increasing blood flow and oxygen to the heart muscle, thereby relieving chest pain caused by angina. The medication is not indicated for diuresis, antiemetic effects, or anxiety relief. Therefore, choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they do not reflect the therapeutic use of nitroglycerin.

4. A child is prescribed Amoxicillin 20 mg/kg/day PO to be administered every 12 hr. The child weighs 44 lb. The available medication is amoxicillin suspension 250 mg/5 mL. How many mL should be given per dose?

A. 4 mL
B. 5 mL
C. 6 mL
D. 3 mL

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To calculate the dosage per administration: Convert the weight to kg (44 lb / 2.2 lb/kg = 20 kg). Then, (20 mg/kg/day x 20 kg) / 2 (for every 12 hr dosing) = 200 mg per dose. (200 mg / 250 mg) x 5 mL = 4 mL per dose. Therefore, the nurse should administer 4 mL of amoxicillin suspension per dose. Choice B, 5 mL, is incorrect because the calculation shows that 4 mL is the correct dose. Choices C and D are also incorrect as they are not in line with the calculated dosage based on the weight of the child and the concentration of the medication.

5. A client has a new prescription for Metoprolol. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Take this medication with food.
B. Monitor for signs of hyperglycemia.
C. Avoid sudden discontinuation of the medication.
D. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to instruct the client to avoid sudden discontinuation of Metoprolol. Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that should be tapered off gradually to prevent rebound hypertension and other cardiac issues. Abruptly stopping Metoprolol can lead to serious complications, so it is essential for the client to follow the healthcare provider's guidance on discontinuation. Choice A is incorrect because Metoprolol can be taken with or without food. Choice B is incorrect as Metoprolol is not typically associated with causing hyperglycemia. Choice D is also incorrect as there is no need to increase potassium-rich foods specifically due to taking Metoprolol.