Nursing Elites

1. What does it mean when a medication has a half-life?

• A. It only lasts for 30 minutes after the medication is given
• B. How long it takes for half of the dose to be eliminated from the bloodstream
• C. It is the peak of how effective the medicine is
• D. Drug is greatly reduced before it reaches the systemic circulation

Correct answer: B

Rationale: When a medication has a half-life, it refers to the time it takes for half of the dose to be eliminated from the bloodstream. This parameter is crucial in understanding the duration of action and dosing intervals for medications in clinical practice. Choice A is incorrect as the half-life is not about how long the medication lasts but about elimination from the body. Choice C is incorrect because the half-life is not about the peak effectiveness of the medicine. Choice D is incorrect as it does not accurately define the concept of half-life.

2. A client has a new prescription for Brimonidine ophthalmic drops and wears soft contact lenses. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. This medication can stain your contacts.
• B. This medication can cause your pupils to constrict.
• C. This medication can absorb into your contacts.
• D. This medication can slow your heart rate.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct instruction the nurse should include is that Brimonidine can absorb into soft contact lenses. To prevent this, the client should remove the contacts, instill the medication, and wait at least 15 minutes before putting the contacts back in to avoid any potential absorption of the medication into the lenses. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because Brimonidine is not known to stain contacts, cause pupil constriction, or slow heart rate.

3. A client has a new prescription for a Nitroglycerin transdermal patch for Angina Pectoris. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Remove the patch each evening.
• B. Do not cut the patch in half even if angina attacks are under control.
• C. Remove the nitroglycerin patch for 30 minutes if a headache occurs.
• D. Apply a new patch every 48 hours.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client using a Nitroglycerin transdermal patch is to remove the patch each evening to prevent tolerance. This allows for a nitrate-free period of 10 to 12 hours during each 24-hour period, reducing the risk of developing tolerance to the medication. Choice B is incorrect because cutting the patch could alter the dose delivery and is not recommended. Choice C is incorrect as removing the patch for 30 minutes when a headache occurs may not be effective in managing symptoms. Choice D is incorrect as Nitroglycerin patches are usually applied once daily, not every 48 hours.

4. A client has a new prescription for Hydroxychloroquine to treat Lupus Erythematosus. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Nausea
• B. Hair loss
• C. Eye damage
• D. Drowsiness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is 'C: Eye damage.' Hydroxychloroquine can cause severe adverse effects on the eyes, such as retinopathy, which can lead to permanent visual impairment. It is essential for clients to be aware of this potential adverse effect and report any changes in vision promptly. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because although nausea, hair loss, and drowsiness can occur with Hydroxychloroquine, they are not as severe or critical as the risk of eye damage.

5. A client has a new prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following adverse effects should the nurse monitor?

• A. Hyponatremia
• B. Hyperkalemia
• C. Hypercalcemia
• D. Hypoglycemia

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Corrected Rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic, can lead to electrolyte imbalances, particularly hyponatremia (low sodium levels). The nurse should closely monitor the client's sodium levels due to the potential adverse effect of Hydrochlorothiazide. Incorrect Rationales: - Hyperkalemia (Choice B) is less likely to be caused by Hydrochlorothiazide; in fact, it can lead to hypokalemia. - Hypercalcemia (Choice C) is not a common adverse effect of Hydrochlorothiazide. - Hypoglycemia (Choice D) is not directly associated with Hydrochlorothiazide use.

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