Nursing Elites

1. A client who has begun taking fosinopril (Monopril) is very distressed, telling the nurse that he cannot taste food normally since beginning the medication 2 weeks ago. The nurse provides the best support to the client by:

• A. Telling the client not to take the medication with food
• B. Suggesting that the client taper the dose until taste returns to normal
• C. Informing the client that impaired taste is expected and generally disappears in 2 to 3 months
• D. Requesting that the health care provider (HCP) change the prescription to another brand of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is to inform the client that impaired taste is an expected side effect of ACE inhibitors like fosinopril, such as Monopril, and typically resolves within 2 to 3 months. It is essential for the nurse to offer reassurance and education to the client about this common side effect to alleviate distress and encourage compliance with the medication regimen.

2. A client with diabetes mellitus is prescribed Humulin NPH insulin. The client asks the nurse how to store unopened vials of insulin. The nurse instructs the client to:

• A. Freeze the insulin.
• B. Refrigerate the insulin.
• C. Store the insulin in a dark, dry place.
• D. Keep the insulin at room temperature.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Unopened vials of insulin should be stored in the refrigerator until needed. Freezing insulin can damage it, affecting its efficacy. Storing insulin in a dark, dry place or at room temperature is not recommended as it can lead to degradation of the insulin. Refrigeration helps maintain the stability and effectiveness of insulin.

3. A client with hypertension is prescribed losartan (Cozaar). Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

• A. Avoid foods high in potassium.
• B. Take the medication with grapefruit juice.
• C. Monitor blood pressure weekly.
• D. Report any swelling of the lips or face.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed losartan (Cozaar) is to report any swelling of the lips or face. Losartan can cause angioedema, which is a serious side effect that requires immediate medical attention. Clients do not need to avoid potassium-rich foods unless specifically instructed by their healthcare provider. Taking the medication with grapefruit juice is not recommended as it can interact with certain medications. Additionally, monitoring blood pressure regularly is important, but it should not be limited to a weekly basis; blood pressure should be monitored as per the healthcare provider's recommendation.

4. A nurse preparing a client for surgery reviews the client's medication record. The client is to be nothing per mouth (NPO) after midnight. Which of the following medications, if noted on the client's record, should the nurse question?

• A. Cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril)
• B. Alendronate (Fosamax)
• C. Allopurinol (Zyloprim)
• D. Prednisone

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Prednisone is a corticosteroid that can cause adrenal atrophy, reducing the body's ability to withstand stress. During surgery, the dosage may need to be adjusted due to its impact on the body's stress response. Choices A, B, and C are not typically contraindicated before surgery and do not have the same potential impact on the body's stress response.

5. Insulin glargine (Lantus) is prescribed for a client with diabetes mellitus. The nurse tells the client that it is best to take the insulin:

• A. 1 hour after each meal
• B. Once daily, at the same time each day
• C. 15 minutes before breakfast, lunch, and dinner
• D. Before each meal, based on the blood glucose level

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Insulin glargine (Lantus) is a long-acting insulin with a duration of action of approximately 24 hours, making it suitable for once-daily dosing at the same time each day. This regimen helps maintain consistent blood glucose levels and simplifies the client's treatment routine. Taking insulin glargine once daily provides basal insulin coverage throughout the day, reducing the risk of hypoglycemia compared to short-acting insulins that are taken before each meal.

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