Nursing Elites

1. Intravenous heparin therapy is prescribed for a client. While implementing this prescription, a nurse ensures that which of the following medications is available on the nursing unit?

• A. Protamine sulfate
• B. Potassium chloride
• C. Phytonadione (vitamin K)
• D. Aminocaproic acid (Amicar)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Protamine sulfate is the antidote for heparin, working to reverse its effects in case of excessive bleeding. It should be readily available when administering heparin to manage any potential bleeding complications effectively. Potassium chloride is not the antidote for heparin and is typically used to correct low potassium levels. Phytonadione (vitamin K) is used to reverse the effects of warfarin, not heparin. Aminocaproic acid (Amicar) is used to treat or prevent excessive bleeding but is not the antidote for heparin.

2. A client with severe acne is seen in the clinic, and the healthcare provider prescribes isotretinoin. The nurse reviews the client's medication record and would contact the healthcare provider if the client is taking which medication?

• A. Vitamin A
• B. Digoxin (Lanoxin)
• C. Furosemide (Lasix)
• D. Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Correct answer: A

Rationale: Isotretinoin is a metabolite of vitamin A, which can lead to toxicity when taken together. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid concurrent use of vitamin A supplements with isotretinoin. Contacting the healthcare provider to discuss discontinuing vitamin A supplements is important to prevent potential adverse effects. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect as they are not known to interact significantly with isotretinoin.

3. An older client recently has been taking cimetidine (Tagamet). The nurse monitors the client for which most frequent central nervous system side effect of this medication?

• A. Tremors
• B. Dizziness
• C. Confusion
• D. Hallucinations

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Older clients are particularly vulnerable to central nervous system side effects of cimetidine. The most frequent side effect is confusion. It is crucial for nurses to be vigilant in monitoring for confusion as it can impact the client's safety and well-being. While tremors, dizziness, and hallucinations are possible side effects, confusion is the most common in older clients taking cimetidine.

4. A client with hypertension is prescribed lisinopril (Zestril). Which instruction should the nurse include in the teaching plan?

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

Correct answer: D

Rationale: The correct instruction for the nurse to include in the teaching plan is to 'Report any swelling of the lips or face.' Lisinopril (Zestril) can cause angioedema, which is swelling of the lips or face. This is a serious side effect that should be reported immediately. Clients do not need to avoid potassium-rich foods unless instructed by their healthcare provider, should avoid taking the medication with grapefruit juice, and should monitor their blood pressure regularly, not just weekly.

5. 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.

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