Nursing Elites

1. A client admitted with shortness of breath and palpitations currently takes an antiarrhythmic medication, dronedarone. Which action should the nurse take to prevent arrhythmias?

• A. Measure orthostatic blood pressure
• B. Obtain a 12-lead ECG reading daily
• C. Assess the client's apical pulse daily
• D. Provide continuous ECG monitoring

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct action to prevent arrhythmias in a client taking an antiarrhythmic medication like dronedarone is to provide continuous ECG monitoring. This is essential because antiarrhythmic drugs can sometimes cause pro-arrhythmic effects, which may lead to dangerous heart rhythm disturbances. Continuous ECG monitoring allows for real-time detection of any abnormal rhythms, enabling prompt intervention. Measuring orthostatic blood pressure, obtaining a 12-lead ECG reading daily, and assessing the client's apical pulse daily are important assessments in general patient care but may not specifically prevent arrhythmias in this scenario.

2. A client is taking levodopa-carbidopa for Parkinson's disease. The nurse should include which instruction when educating the client about this medication?

• A. Increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration.
• B. Take medication with food to improve absorption.
• C. Take medication at bedtime to avoid daytime drowsiness.
• D. It can cause nausea and dizziness.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client taking levodopa-carbidopa for Parkinson's disease is to increase fluid intake to prevent dehydration. Levodopa-carbidopa should be taken with food to reduce gastrointestinal upset and improve absorption. Taking medication at bedtime is not necessary to avoid daytime drowsiness. It is crucial to prevent dehydration due to the medication's side effects. Choice B is incorrect because the medication should be taken with food, not at bedtime. Choice C is incorrect as taking the medication with food, rather than on an empty stomach, aids in absorption and reduces gastrointestinal side effects. Choice D is incorrect as it states the side effects of the medication rather than providing specific instructions on its administration.

3. The healthcare provider has administered albuterol as an inhaled medication. The healthcare provider should monitor the client for which possible adverse reaction?

• A. Enuresis
• B. Lethargy
• C. Depression
• D. Tachycardia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Albuterol is a bronchodilator in the adrenergic category. Its actions and adverse effects are similar to adrenaline or epinephrine. The healthcare provider should monitor the client for tachycardia, which is a common adverse effect of albuterol due to its stimulant effect on beta-2 receptors. Enuresis, or night bed-wetting, is not an adverse effect associated with albuterol. Additionally, the client should be monitored for anxiety as a potential adverse effect, not lethargy or depression, which are not typically associated with albuterol administration.

4. The patient is prescribed cimetidine (Tagamet) orally. What should the nurse consider about administering this drug?

• A. Administer the drug with the first bite of food
• B. Administer the drug immediately after meals
• C. Administer the drug 30 minutes after meals
• D. Administer the drug 30 minutes before meals

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Cimetidine is best absorbed when taken 30 minutes before meals to decrease stomach acid. Administering it before meals allows for optimal absorption and effectiveness of the medication. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because administering cimetidine with food, immediately after meals, or 30 minutes after meals may not provide the best conditions for absorption. Taking it before meals ensures that the drug is absorbed properly and can exert its intended effects.

5. The healthcare professional is preparing client teaching materials on commonly used medications. Which client is most likely to benefit from a client education package about simvastatin?

• A. A 50-year-old male with a history of angina
• B. A 75-year-old male with bone cancer
• C. An 18-year-old pregnant female with diabetes
• D. A 40-year-old female with frequent vaginal infections

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Simvastatin is a medication used to lower cholesterol levels and prevent cardiovascular diseases. It is commonly prescribed for individuals at risk of heart-related conditions. Angina is a symptom of underlying heart disease, and individuals with this condition would benefit most from simvastatin to help manage their cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. Therefore, the 50-year-old male with a history of angina is the most suitable candidate for client education regarding simvastatin. Choices B, C, and D are not the most appropriate candidates for simvastatin education because bone cancer, pregnancy with diabetes, and frequent vaginal infections are not conditions typically treated with simvastatin.

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