a patient with a history of osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate fosamax what specific instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effective

ATI RN

Pathophysiology Exam 1 Quizlet

1. A patient with a history of osteoporosis is prescribed alendronate (Fosamax). What specific instructions should the nurse provide to ensure the effectiveness of the medication?

A. Take the medication with a full glass of water and remain upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption.
B. Take the medication with milk to enhance calcium absorption.
C. Take the medication at bedtime to ensure absorption during sleep.
D. Take the medication with food to prevent nausea.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Alendronate should be taken with a full glass of water, and patients should remain upright for at least 30 minutes to prevent esophageal irritation and ensure proper absorption. This positioning helps reduce the risk of esophageal irritation and ensures adequate drug absorption. Choice B is incorrect because alendronate should be taken with water, not milk. Choice C is incorrect as there is no specific advantage to taking alendronate at bedtime. Choice D is incorrect because taking alendronate with food may interfere with its absorption.

2. In which patient is alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency the likely cause of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease?

A. A 30-year-old who has smoked for 3 years
B. A 65-year-old man who worked as a taxi driver most of his life
C. A 70-year-old woman who smoked for 40 years
D. A 50-year-old with exposure to secondhand smoke

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A. Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency is a genetic condition that can lead to COPD at a young age, even in light smokers. Choice B is less likely as the patient's occupation does not directly correlate with alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Choice C, a 70-year-old woman with a long smoking history, is more likely to have COPD due to smoking rather than alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency. Choice D, exposure to secondhand smoke, is not a common cause of alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency-related COPD.

3. Macular degeneration occurs as a result of:

A. loss of lens accommodation
B. detachment of the retina
C. increased intraocular pressure
D. impaired blood supply leading to cellular waste accumulation and ischemia

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Macular degeneration is a condition that affects the macula, a part of the retina responsible for central vision. It is primarily caused by impaired blood supply to the macula, leading to cellular waste accumulation and ischemia. This results in the death of photoreceptor cells and ultimately vision loss. Choices A, B, and C are incorrect because macular degeneration is not related to the loss of lens accommodation, detachment of the retina, or increased intraocular pressure. The correct answer directly addresses the underlying pathophysiology of macular degeneration.

4. What is the primary action of bisphosphonates when prescribed to a patient with osteoporosis?

A. It inhibits bone resorption, which helps maintain bone density.
B. It stimulates new bone formation by increasing osteoblast activity.
C. It increases calcium absorption in the intestines, which helps build stronger bones.
D. It decreases calcium excretion by the kidneys, helping to maintain bone density.

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: "It inhibits bone resorption, which helps maintain bone density." Bisphosphonates work by inhibiting bone resorption carried out by osteoclasts, thereby preventing the breakdown of bones and helping to maintain or increase bone density in patients with osteoporosis. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because bisphosphonates do not directly stimulate new bone formation, increase calcium absorption in the intestines, or decrease calcium excretion by the kidneys.

5. What causes hepatic encephalopathy?

A. A brain infection
B. Increased ammonia levels in the bloodstream
C. Decreased albumin blood levels
D. Untreated chronic bronchitis

Correct answer: B

Rationale: Hepatic encephalopathy is caused by increased ammonia levels in the bloodstream. Ammonia, a byproduct of protein metabolism normally processed by the liver, accumulates in the bloodstream when the liver is unable to function properly. This excess ammonia affects brain function, leading to symptoms of hepatic encephalopathy. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because they do not directly relate to the pathophysiology of hepatic encephalopathy.