Nursing Elites

1. Before administering lithium to a client with bipolar disorder who has been taking the medication for 1 year, the nurse should check to see that which of the following tests has been completed?

• A. Thyroid hormone assay
• B. Liver function tests
• C. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate
• D. Brain natriuretic peptide

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is to check the thyroid hormone assay. Long-term lithium use can result in thyroid dysfunction, making it crucial to monitor the client's thyroid function regularly to detect any abnormalities early and prevent potential complications. Liver function tests (choice B) are not specifically associated with lithium therapy. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (choice C) is a nonspecific test for inflammation and not directly related to lithium therapy. Brain natriuretic peptide (choice D) is a test used to diagnose heart failure and is not relevant to monitoring lithium therapy.

2. A client is being discharged with a new prescription for Metronidazole. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication.
• B. Take this medication on an empty stomach.
• C. Avoid dairy products while taking this medication.
• D. Take this medication with antacids.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct instruction for a client prescribed Metronidazole is to avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medication. Consuming alcohol with Metronidazole can lead to a disulfiram-like reaction, causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and flushing. It is crucial to advise clients to abstain from alcohol during the course of treatment to prevent adverse reactions and ensure the effectiveness of the medication.

3. A client has a new prescription for Clozapine. Which of the following statements should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. You should have a high-carbohydrate snack between meals and at bedtime.
• B. You are likely to develop hand tremors if you take this medication for a long period of time.
• C. You may experience temporary numbness of your mouth after each dose.
• D. You should have your white blood cell count monitored every week.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Clozapine has a risk for fatal agranulocytosis, making weekly monitoring of the client's white blood cell (WBC) count essential to detect any potential issues early. This monitoring helps in managing the risk and ensuring the client's safety while on clozapine.

4. A client with Peptic Ulcer Disease who is taking Sucralfate PO has a new prescription for phenytoin to control seizures. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?

• A. Take an antacid with the sucralfate.
• B. Take sucralfate with a glass of milk.
• C. Allow a 2-hour interval between these medications.
• D. Chew the sucralfate thoroughly before swallowing.

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Sucralfate can interfere with the absorption of phenytoin. To prevent this interaction, the client should allow a 2-hour interval between taking sucralfate and phenytoin. This interval helps ensure that each medication is absorbed effectively without affecting the other's absorption. Choices A, B, and D are incorrect because taking an antacid with sucralfate, taking sucralfate with a glass of milk, or chewing sucralfate thoroughly before swallowing are not necessary or recommended instructions to prevent the interaction between sucralfate and phenytoin.

5. A client has a new prescription for Calcitonin-salmon for postmenopausal osteoporosis. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include in the teaching?

• A. Swallow tablets on an empty stomach with plenty of water.
• B. Watch for skin rash and redness when applying calcitonin-salmon topically.
• C. Mix the liquid medication with juice and take it after meals.
• D. Alternate nostrils each time calcitonin-salmon is inhaled.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Calcitonin-salmon is commonly administered intranasally for postmenopausal osteoporosis. It is essential to alternate nostrils daily when inhaling the medication to ensure equal distribution and optimal absorption. This technique helps prevent irritation and congestion in one nostril and enhances the effectiveness of the medication. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because calcitonin-salmon is not swallowed, applied topically, or taken as a liquid medication after meals. Therefore, instructing the client to alternate nostrils during inhalation is the most appropriate teaching for this medication.

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