Nursing Elites

1. A client is receiving meperidine (Demerol) for pain management. Which assessment finding requires immediate action?

• A. Constipation
• B. Drowsiness
• C. Respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute
• D. Nausea

Correct answer: C

Rationale: A respiratory rate of 10 breaths per minute indicates respiratory depression, a severe side effect of meperidine (Demerol) that necessitates immediate intervention to prevent further complications. Constipation, drowsiness, and nausea are common but less urgent side effects that do not pose an immediate life-threatening risk. Respiratory depression can lead to respiratory arrest and must be addressed promptly to ensure the client's safety and well-being.

2. A client is being educated about the use of levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet) for Parkinson's disease. Which statement by the client indicates a need for further teaching?

• A. I should avoid taking the medication with a high-protein meal.
• B. I may experience dizziness when getting up quickly.
• C. I might notice a darkening of my urine.
• D. I should report any uncontrolled movements to my healthcare provider.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Levodopa-carbidopa (Sinemet) should not be taken with a high-protein meal as protein can interfere with the absorption of the medication. It is recommended to take it on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Choices B, C, and D are accurate statements regarding potential side effects and actions to take while on levodopa-carbidopa therapy, indicating a good understanding by the client.

3. A client is prescribed metronidazole (Flagyl) for a trichomoniasis infection. Which of the following should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

• A. Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. Take the medication with food.
• C. Increase fluid intake to prevent kidney stones.
• D. Report any gastrointestinal upset to the healthcare provider.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Metronidazole (Flagyl) can cause a disulfiram-like reaction when taken with alcohol, resulting in severe nausea, vomiting, and headache. Therefore, the client should be advised to avoid alcohol while taking this medication to prevent adverse effects. Avoiding alcohol is crucial to prevent these reactions and ensure the effectiveness of the treatment. The other options are not directly related to the specific medication or the condition being treated.

4. A healthcare professional is planning to administer amlodipine (Norvasc) to a client. The healthcare professional plans to check which of the following before giving the medication?

• A. Respiratory rate
• B. Blood pressure and heart rate
• C. Heart rate and respiratory rate
• D. Level of consciousness and blood pressure

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Before administering amlodipine, it is important to check the client's blood pressure and heart rate. Amlodipine is known to lower blood pressure and heart rate as part of its mechanism of action. Monitoring these vital signs helps ensure the safety of the client and allows for appropriate assessment of the medication's effects post-administration.

5. A client has been prescribed cyclosporine (Sandimmune). Which food item should the client avoid based on the medication's interaction?

• A. Red meats
• B. Orange juice
• C. Grapefruit juice
• D. Green, leafy vegetables

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Grapefruit juice should be avoided when taking cyclosporine because it inhibits the metabolism of the medication, leading to increased blood levels and a higher risk of toxicity. It is important for the client to follow this dietary instruction to ensure the safe and effective use of cyclosporine.

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