A client taking a chemical stimulant laxative and medications for heart failure and osteoarthritis calls the clinic and reports, “I’m just not feeling right.” What is the priority question the nurse should ask this client?
Amount of fluid intake.
Timing of medication administration.
Previous effectiveness of laxatives.
The amount of fiber intake.
The Correct Answer is A
The nurse should ask this question because the client is taking a chemical stimulant laxative, which can cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, especially in combination with medications for heart failure and osteoarthritis that may also affect fluid and electrolyte balance. The nurse should assess the client’s hydration status and risk of hypovolemia or hypotension.
Choice B. Timing of medication administration is wrong because it is not the priority question in this situation.
The nurse should ask this question later to determine if the client is taking the medications as prescribed and if there are any drug interactions or adverse effects.
Choice C. Previous effectiveness of laxatives is wrong because it is not relevant to the client’s current condition.
The nurse should ask this question later to evaluate the client’s bowel habits and history of constipation.
Choice D. The amount of fiber intake is wrong because it is not the priority question in this situation.
The nurse should ask this question later to educate the client about dietary measures to prevent constipation and promote bowel health.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Loratadine is a second-generation antihistamine that does not cause drowsiness or sedation as a common side effect. It can relieve the symptoms of seasonal rhinitis such as sneezing, runny nose, and itching.
Choice B. Diphenhydramine is wrong because it is a first-generation antihistamine that can cause drowsiness or sedation as a common side effect.
It can also cause dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.
Choice C. Hydroxyzine is wrong because it is also a first-generation antihistamine that can cause drowsiness or sedation as a common side effect.
It can also cause dry mouth, blurred vision, and urinary retention.
It is mainly used for anxiety and itching.
Choice D. Dexchlorphen
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Prednisone is a glucocorticoid that suppresses the production of natural cortisol by the adrenal glands. Taking prednisone on alternate days allows the adrenal glands to recover and produce some cortisol on the days without prednisone.
Choice B is wrong because prednisone does not eliminate adverse side effects, but may cause some such as weight gain, fluid retention, increased blood pressure, increased blood glucose, and increased risk of infection.
Choice C is wrong because there is no evidence of steroid tolerance, which means that higher doses are needed to achieve the same effect.
Choice D is wrong because prednisone does not prolong therapeutic effects, but may decrease them over time due to feedback inhibition of cortisol secretion.
Normal ranges for cortisol are 6 to 23 mcg/dL in the morning and 2 to 11 mcg/dL in the afternoon.
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