Nursing Elites

1. A client diagnosed with seizures is prescribed phenytoin. Which medication instruction should the practical nurse (PN) reinforce to this client?

• A. Maintain consistent sodium intake.
• B. Use sunscreen when outdoors.
• C. Return for monthly urinalysis.
• D. Brush and floss teeth daily.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct answer is to reinforce the instruction to brush and floss teeth daily. Phenytoin therapy can lead to gingival hyperplasia (gum disease), which can be prevented by maintaining good oral hygiene practices such as brushing and flossing daily. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because they are not directly related to the side effects or management of phenytoin therapy. Maintaining consistent sodium intake is not a specific concern with phenytoin. Using sunscreen when outdoors is important to prevent sunburn but is not directly related to phenytoin therapy. Returning for monthly urinalysis may be necessary for other medications, but it is not specifically required for monitoring phenytoin therapy.

2. A client with a history of stroke is prescribed dabigatran. The nurse should monitor for which potential side effect?

• A. Dry mouth
• B. Weight gain
• C. Headache
• D. Dizziness

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is C: Headache. Dabigatran, an anticoagulant, can cause headache as a potential side effect. Headache is important to monitor as it may indicate adverse effects or complications that need attention. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because dry mouth, weight gain, and dizziness are not commonly associated with dabigatran use.

3. A client with rheumatoid arthritis is prescribed adalimumab. What instruction should the nurse include in the client's teaching plan?

• A. Avoid live vaccines while taking this medication.
• B. Take this medication with food to decrease gastrointestinal upset.
• C. Report any signs of infection to the healthcare provider.
• D. Avoid sunlight exposure while taking this medication.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed adalimumab, which is an immunosuppressant medication, is to avoid live vaccines. Adalimumab can weaken the immune system, making live vaccines potentially harmful. It is essential to educate the client on this to prevent complications and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment.

4. A client diagnosed with a sinus infection is prescribed ampicillin sodium. The practical nurse (PN) should instruct the client to notify the healthcare provider immediately if which symptom occurs?

• A. Rash
• B. Nausea
• C. Headache
• D. Dizziness

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A - Rash. Rash is the most common adverse side effect of all generations of penicillin, indicating an allergy to the medication. An allergic reaction could lead to anaphylactic shock, a severe and potentially life-threatening emergency. It is crucial for the client to inform the healthcare provider promptly if a rash develops after taking ampicillin sodium.

5. A client with major depressive disorder is prescribed bupropion. Which statement by the client indicates the need for further teaching?

• A. This medication may cause weight gain.
• B. This medication may take several weeks to take effect.
• C. I should avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
• D. I should take this medication in the morning with food.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A because bupropion is associated with weight loss rather than weight gain. It is important for the client to be aware of this potential side effect. Choice B is correct because bupropion may take several weeks to exhibit its full therapeutic effects. Choice C is also accurate as alcohol consumption should be avoided while taking bupropion due to the risk of seizures. Choice D is correct as taking bupropion in the morning with food can help reduce the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.

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