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 is taking lansoprazole (Prevacid) for the chronic management of Zollinger-Ellison syndrome. The nurse advises the client to take which of the following products if needed for a headache?

• A. Naproxen (Aleve)
• B. Ibuprofen (Advil)
• C. Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
• D. Acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin)

Correct answer: C

Rationale: Acetaminophen is the preferred choice for pain relief in individuals taking lansoprazole for Zollinger-Ellison syndrome due to its lower risk of stomach irritation compared to NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin. Naproxen, ibuprofen, and aspirin are NSAIDs that can increase the risk of stomach irritation and bleeding, which is why they are not recommended for individuals with Zollinger-Ellison syndrome who are already on lansoprazole to reduce stomach acid production.

3. After the initial dose, which of the following is the priority assessment for a client being treated for acute congestive heart failure with intravenously administered bumetanide?

• A. Monitoring weight loss
• B. Monitoring temperature
• C. Monitoring blood pressure
• D. Monitoring potassium level

Correct answer: C

Rationale: The correct answer is monitoring blood pressure. Bumetanide is a loop diuretic, and monitoring blood pressure is crucial as hypotension is a common side effect. Hypotension can further worsen the condition of a patient with congestive heart failure, so assessing and managing blood pressure is a priority after administering bumetanide.

4. Alendronate (Fosamax) is prescribed for a client with osteoporosis. The client taking this medication is instructed to:

• A. Take the medication at bedtime.
• B. Take the medication in the morning with breakfast.
• C. Lie down for 30 minutes after taking the medication.
• D. Take the medication with a full glass of water after rising in the morning.

Correct answer: D

Rationale: Alendronate (Fosamax) should be taken with a full glass of water after rising in the morning to prevent gastrointestinal side effects and increase absorption. Taking the medication with a full glass of water and in an upright position after waking up helps decrease the risk of esophageal irritation and enhances the drug's effectiveness by ensuring proper absorption in the gastrointestinal tract.

5. Salicylic acid is prescribed for a client with a diagnosis of psoriasis. The nurse monitors the client, knowing that which of the following would indicate the presence of systemic toxicity from this medication?

• A. Tinnitus
• B. Diarrhea
• C. Constipation
• D. Decreased respirations

Correct answer: A

Rationale: The correct answer is A: Tinnitus. Salicylic acid can lead to systemic toxicity, known as salicylism, which may manifest with symptoms like tinnitus, dizziness, hyperventilation, and mental disturbances. Tinnitus is a common early sign of salicylism and should be monitored closely by the nurse to prevent further complications.

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