Nursing Elites

1. A healthcare professional reviewing a client's medical record notes a new prescription for verifying the trough level of the client's medication. Which of the following actions should the professional take?

• A. Obtain a blood specimen immediately prior to administering the next dose of medication.
• B. Verify that the client has been taking the medication for 24 hours before obtaining a blood specimen.
• C. Ask the client to provide a urine specimen after the next dose of medication.
• D. Administer the medication, and obtain a blood specimen 30 minutes later.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: To verify trough levels of a medication, the healthcare professional should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of medication. This timing ensures an accurate representation of the medication's lowest concentration in the bloodstream, which is crucial for therapeutic monitoring and dose adjustments. Choice B is incorrect because waiting 24 hours after taking the medication would not provide an accurate trough level. Choice C is incorrect as urine specimens are not used to measure trough levels. Choice D is incorrect because obtaining a blood specimen 30 minutes after administering the medication would not reflect the trough level, as it is the lowest concentration before the next dose.

2. A healthcare professional is preparing to administer Filgrastim for the first time to a client who has just undergone a bone marrow transplant. Which of the following interventions is appropriate?

• A. Administer intravenously to prevent injury.
• B. Ensure that the medication is kept refrigerated until just prior to administration.
• C. Do not shake the vial; gently invert it to mix before withdrawing the dose.
• D. Discard the vial after removing one dose of the medication.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: When administering Filgrastim, only one dose should be withdrawn from the vial, and the vial should then be discarded to prevent any contamination or errors in dosing. It is crucial not to shake the vial but gently invert it to mix the medication before withdrawing the appropriate dose. Refrigeration is not required for Filgrastim; it should be stored at room temperature until just before administration. Choice A is incorrect because Filgrastim is typically administered subcutaneously, not intravenously. Choice B is incorrect as the medication should be stored at room temperature, not refrigerated, until administration. Choice C is incorrect as shaking the vial is not recommended for Filgrastim.

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

• A. Take this medication with food.
• B. Avoid taking aspirin while on this medication.
• C. Avoid eating foods high in potassium.
• D. Take this medication at bedtime.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a client is prescribed Clopidogrel, an antiplatelet medication, the nurse should instruct them to avoid taking aspirin or other NSAIDs. This is because both medications can increase the risk of bleeding when taken together, potentially leading to serious health complications. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to follow this instruction to ensure their safety and well-being while on Clopidogrel. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because taking Clopidogrel with food, avoiding foods high in potassium, or taking the medication at bedtime are not specific instructions related to the safe use of Clopidogrel and do not address the potential interaction with aspirin, which is essential for the client's well-being.

4. A client has a new prescription for Levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism. Which of the following instructions should be included in the teaching?

• A. Take this medication with food.
• B. Take this medication at bedtime.
• C. Expect to see results in 1 week.
• D. Do not discontinue the medication without consulting the provider.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client with a new prescription for Levothyroxine to treat hypothyroidism is not to discontinue the medication without consulting the provider. Abrupt cessation could lead to the return of hypothyroid symptoms, emphasizing the importance of medical guidance when considering any changes to the treatment plan. Choice A is incorrect because Levothyroxine should be taken on an empty stomach, typically in the morning. Choice B is incorrect as it contradicts the timing of administration for Levothyroxine. Choice C is inaccurate as it usually takes a few weeks for the full effects of Levothyroxine to be seen, not just 1 week.

5. A client has a new prescription for Pancrelipase for chronic pancreatitis. Which of the following instructions should be included by the nurse?

• A. Take the medication with meals and snacks.
• B. Chew the tablet thoroughly before swallowing.
• C. Take the medication 1 hour before meals.
• D. Expect the stool to be yellow.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for taking Pancrelipase is to take it with meals and snacks to aid in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. This helps optimize the effectiveness of the medication in managing chronic pancreatitis. Choice B is incorrect because Pancrelipase should not be chewed but swallowed whole. Choice C is incorrect as the medication should be taken with meals. Choice D is incorrect because while Pancrelipase can cause stool changes, yellow stool is not an expected outcome.

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