Nursing Elites

1. Following a stroke, a client has been started on clopidogrel (Plavix). Why is this medication being administered?

• A. To prevent stroke in high-risk patients, such as those with prosthetic heart valves
• B. To decrease blood pressure
• C. To increase heart rate
• D. To provide antiplatelet activity in patients who cannot tolerate aspirin

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Clopidogrel (Plavix) is an antiplatelet medication that inhibits platelet aggregation, reducing the risk of blood clots. It is commonly used in patients who have had a stroke and cannot tolerate aspirin due to allergies or intolerances. Choosing clopidogrel in these cases helps prevent further clot formation and reduces the risk of recurrent strokes.

2. A healthcare provider is completing a client's medical history. The client takes Simvastatin. The healthcare provider should identify which of the following disorders as a contraindication to adding Ezetimibe to the client's medications?

• A. History of severe constipation
• B. History of hypertension
• C. Active hepatitis C
• D. Type 2 diabetes mellitus

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Ezetimibe is contraindicated in patients with active moderate-to-severe liver disorders, such as active hepatitis C, especially when they are already taking a statin like simvastatin. This combination can increase the risk of liver problems and is not recommended due to the potential for further liver damage. Choices A, B, and D are not directly contraindications for adding Ezetimibe to the client's medications.

3. A client has a new prescription for clonidine to treat hypertension. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Discontinue the medication if a rash develops.
• B. Expect increased salivation during the first few weeks of therapy.
• C. Avoid driving until the client's reaction to the medication is known.
• D. Stop the medication if you experience a dry mouth.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client starting clonidine therapy for hypertension is to avoid driving until their reaction to the medication is known. Clonidine can cause drowsiness, so engaging in activities like driving that require alertness should be avoided until the individual understands how the medication affects them. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because they do not address the specific side effect of drowsiness associated with clonidine that could impair driving abilities. Discontinuing the medication if a rash develops, expecting increased salivation, or stopping the medication for dry mouth are not primary concerns related to clonidine therapy for hypertension.

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

• A. Restrict fluid intake to 1,000 mL per day.
• B. Maintain a consistent sodium intake.
• C. Take the medication at bedtime.
• D. Expect to have frequent headaches.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Maintaining a consistent sodium intake is crucial when taking Lithium to help regulate lithium levels in the body and prevent toxicity. Sodium levels can impact the effectiveness and safety of Lithium therapy. Restricting fluid intake to 1,000 mL per day (Choice A) is not appropriate and could lead to dehydration. Taking the medication at bedtime (Choice C) may vary depending on the individual's schedule but is not a critical instruction. Expecting to have frequent headaches (Choice D) is not a common side effect of Lithium.

5. When administering Amitriptyline to a client experiencing cancer pain, for which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

• A. Decreased appetite
• B. Explosive diarrhea
• C. Decreased pulse rate
• D. Orthostatic hypotension

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Corrected Question: When administering Amitriptyline to a client experiencing cancer pain, for which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor? Amitriptyline is known to cause orthostatic hypotension, a sudden drop in blood pressure when moving from lying down or sitting to a standing position. Monitoring for orthostatic hypotension is crucial to prevent falls and related injuries. Educating the client about moving slowly and changing positions gradually can help mitigate this adverse effect. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because decreased appetite, explosive diarrhea, and decreased pulse rate are not commonly associated with Amitriptyline use. Therefore, the correct answer is D.

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