what patient could potentially take the drug senna

ATI RN

ATI Proctored Pharmacology Test

1. In which patient could the drug Senna potentially be indicated?

A. A patient with an eating disorder
B. A patient who has not passed stool in 5 days
C. A patient with anal fissures
D. A patient with a history of hemorrhoids

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Senna is a stimulant laxative commonly used to treat constipation by stimulating bowel movements. It is typically indicated for patients who have not passed stool in several days, thereby helping to relieve constipation. Patients with eating disorders may require different treatments related to their condition. Patients with anal fissures or a history of hemorrhoids may need treatments targeted at those specific issues, which may not involve Senna.

2. A nurse 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 nurse 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 the trough levels of a medication accurately, the nurse should obtain a blood specimen immediately before administering the next dose of the medication. The trough level represents the lowest concentration of the medication in the bloodstream, typically right before the next dose is due. This timing ensures an accurate assessment of the drug's concentration in the body at its lowest point, aiding in determining the drug's effectiveness and potential toxicity levels. Choice B is incorrect because waiting for 24 hours would not provide the trough level. Choice C is incorrect as urine specimens are not used to measure trough levels. Choice D is incorrect as obtaining a blood specimen 30 minutes after administering the medication would not reflect the trough level.

3. What is the therapeutic use of Phenytoin?

A. Replacement in hypothyroidism to restore normal hormonal balance
B. Diminished accumulation of acid in the gastric lumen with lessened gastroesophageal reflux
C. Diminished seizure activity, termination of ventricular arrhythmias
D. Prevention of thrombus formation, prevention of extension of existing thrombi

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Phenytoin is primarily used to diminish seizure activity and is effective in terminating ventricular arrhythmias. It works by stabilizing neuronal membranes, reducing repetitive neuronal firing, and limiting the spread of seizure activity in the brain. While phenytoin does not have a direct role in preventing thrombus formation or extending existing thrombi, it is crucial in managing seizures and certain arrhythmias.

4. A client has a prescription for Hydrochlorothiazide. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

A. Take this medication in the morning.
B. Increase intake of potassium-rich foods.
C. Take this medication with food.
D. Monitor for signs of dehydration.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to monitor for signs of dehydration. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that can lead to fluid loss and electrolyte imbalance, potentially causing dehydration. Signs of dehydration include dry mouth, increased thirst, and decreased urine output. It is important for the client to be vigilant in monitoring and reporting these symptoms to healthcare providers to prevent complications. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because taking the medication in the morning, increasing potassium-rich foods, or taking the medication with food are not specific instructions related to the potential side effects of Hydrochlorothiazide.

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

A. Take the medication with meals.
B. Increase your intake of calcium-rich foods.
C. Rinse your mouth after each use.
D. Limit fluid intake while taking this medication.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: 'Rinse your mouth after each use.' Beclomethasone can cause oral candidiasis (thrush) as an adverse effect. Rinsing the mouth after each use helps reduce the risk of developing thrush by removing any residue of the medication from the mouth, which can promote fungal growth. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect. Taking the medication with meals, increasing calcium-rich foods intake, or limiting fluid intake are not specific instructions related to minimizing the side effect of oral candidiasis associated with Beclomethasone.