Nursing Elites

1. A client with a prescription to take theophylline (Theo-24) daily has been given medication instructions by the nurse. The nurse determines that the client needs further information about the medication if the client states that he or she will:

• A. Drink at least 2 L of fluid per day.
• B. Take the daily dose at bedtime.
• C. Avoid changing brands of the medication without health care provider (HCP) approval.
• D. Avoid over-the-counter (OTC) cough and cold medications unless approved by the HCP.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct answer is B. Taking theophylline at bedtime is inappropriate because it can cause insomnia. The medication should be taken early in the morning to avoid disrupting sleep patterns. It is important to follow the healthcare provider's instructions regarding the timing of the medication to achieve optimal therapeutic effects.

2. The client has begun medication therapy with pancrelipase (Pancrease MT). The nurse evaluates that the medication is having the optimal intended benefit if which effect is observed?

• A. Weight loss
• B. Relief of heartburn
• C. Reduction of steatorrhea
• D. Absence of abdominal pain

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Pancrelipase (Pancrease MT) is a pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy used to aid digestion in clients with pancreatic insufficiency. One of the key goals of pancrelipase therapy is to reduce the amount of undigested fat in the stool, known as steatorrhea. Therefore, the nurse should evaluate the effectiveness of pancrelipase by looking for a reduction in steatorrhea, indicating improved digestion and absorption of fats.

3. Prednisone is prescribed for a client with diabetes mellitus who is taking Humulin neutral protamine Hagedorn (NPH) insulin daily. Which of the following prescription changes does the nurse anticipate during therapy with prednisone?

• A. An additional dose of prednisone daily
• B. A decreased amount of daily Humulin NPH insulin
• C. An increased amount of daily Humulin NPH insulin
• D. The addition of an oral hypoglycemic medication daily

Correct answer: C

Rationale: When prednisone is prescribed for a client with diabetes mellitus who is taking Humulin NPH insulin daily, the nurse should anticipate an increased amount of daily Humulin NPH insulin. Prednisone, a glucocorticoid, can elevate blood glucose levels, requiring an increase in insulin dosage to maintain optimal blood sugar control.

4. Cycloserine (Seromycin) is added to the medication regimen for a client with tuberculosis. Which of the following would the nurse include in the client-teaching plan regarding this medication?

• A. To take the medication after meals
• B. To return to the clinic weekly for serum drug-level testing
• C. To call the health care provider (HCP) if a skin rash occurs
• D. To restrict alcohol intake with this medication

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Cycloserine requires weekly serum drug level determinations to monitor for neurotoxicity. The medication must be taken after meals, and the client should avoid alcohol. Additionally, the client should report any signs of skin rash or central nervous system toxicity to the healthcare provider.

5. A client is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) for the treatment of osteoporosis. Which instruction should the nurse provide to the client?

• A. Take the medication at bedtime.
• B. Take the medication with a full glass of water.
• C. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• D. Take the medication with food to avoid gastrointestinal upset.

Correct answer: B

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed alendronate (Fosamax) for osteoporosis is to take the medication with a full glass of water first thing in the morning. It should be taken at least 30 minutes before any food, beverage, or other medication. The client should also remain upright for at least 30 minutes after taking the medication to prevent esophageal irritation. Taking alendronate at bedtime or with food is not recommended as it may reduce its absorption and effectiveness.

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