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 Simvastatin. Which of the following client statements indicates an understanding of the teaching?

• A. I will take this medication at bedtime.
• B. I should avoid eating grapefruit while taking this medication.
• C. I will need to monitor my blood sugar closely while taking this medication.
• D. I will stop taking the medication if I develop muscle pain.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Grapefruit can increase the levels of simvastatin in the blood, leading to an increased risk of serious side effects, including muscle pain or damage. Therefore, it is crucial for the client to avoid consuming grapefruit while taking this medication to prevent potential complications.

3. A healthcare provider is preparing to administer metoprolol to a client. Which of the following findings should the provider identify as a contraindication to receiving this medication?

• A. Bradycardia
• B. Hypertension
• C. Fever
• D. Rash

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Metoprolol, a beta-blocker, is contraindicated in clients with bradycardia as it can further lower the heart rate, potentially leading to more serious complications. Bradycardia is defined as a heart rate below 60 beats per minute, and administering metoprolol in such cases can exacerbate this condition, causing adverse effects on cardiac output. Hypertension, fever, and rash are not contraindications for metoprolol administration.

4. A client has a new prescription for Prednisone. Which of the following instructions should be included in the discharge teaching?

• A. Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods.
• B. Avoid consuming grapefruit juice.
• C. Take this medication with food.
• D. Decrease your intake of sodium-rich foods.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "Increase your intake of potassium-rich foods." Prednisone is associated with potassium depletion, making it important for clients to increase their intake of potassium-rich foods to prevent potential imbalances. Foods such as bananas, oranges, and spinach are good sources of potassium. Choice B, "Avoid consuming grapefruit juice," is not directly related to Prednisone use. Choice C, "Take this medication with food," is a general instruction for many medications but not specific to Prednisone. Choice D, "Decrease your intake of sodium-rich foods," is not directly related to Prednisone's side effects.

5. In caring for a client who received IV Verapamil to treat supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and presents with a pulse rate of 98/min and blood pressure of 74/44 mm Hg, the nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following IV medications?

• A. Calcium gluconate
• B. Sodium bicarbonate
• C. Potassium chloride
• D. Magnesium sulfate

Correct answer: A

Rationale: In this scenario, the client is experiencing severe hypotension due to Verapamil administration. The appropriate medication to counteract the vasodilation caused by Verapamil and reverse severe hypotension is Calcium gluconate, which should be administered slowly IV. Therefore, the correct choice is Calcium gluconate (Choice A). Sodium bicarbonate (Choice B) is not indicated for hypotension related to Verapamil use. Potassium chloride (Choice C) and Magnesium sulfate (Choice D) are not the appropriate medications to address the hypotension in this situation.

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