A client who is an alcoholic receives a prescription for disulfiram 500 mg by mouth (PO) daily. Which instruction should the nurse provide to this client?
Take the medication with at least 8 ounces (240 mL) of water and limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication.
Begin taking the medication immediately and take it daily, regardless of whether or not you drink alcohol.
Take the medication at bedtime and avoid consuming any more than one ounce of alcohol daily.
Take the medication each morning beginning 48 hours after your last drink of alcohol.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Take the medication with at least 8 ounces (240 mL) of water and limit alcohol consumption while taking this medication is incorrect. Alcohol must be completely avoided while taking disulfiram, as even small amounts can cause a severe reaction (e.g., nausea, vomiting, headache, flushing, hypotension).
B. Begin taking the medication immediately and take it daily, regardless of whether or not you drink alcohol is incorrect. Disulfiram should not be started until at least 12–48 hours after the last drink to prevent an acute reaction.
C. Take the medication at bedtime and avoid consuming any more than one ounce of alcohol daily is incorrect. Alcohol must be strictly avoided in any amount.
D. Take the medication each morning beginning 48 hours after your last drink of alcohol is correct. Disulfiram should be initiated at least 12–48 hours after the last alcohol consumption to prevent adverse reactions. The medication is usually taken in the morning to promote adherence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Providing a quiet room is important. This is because individuals with PTSD are often hypersensitive to noise and other stimuli, which can trigger flashbacks or other
symptoms. A quiet environment can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
B. Acquainting the client with the unit rules is important, but connecting the client with peers who understand their experiences can be more therapeutic initially.
C. Ensuring a well-balanced diet is essential but might not be the priority in the immediate plan of care for someone newly admitted with PTSD.
D. Introducing the client to others with similar diagnoses helps foster a sense of belonging.
However, this is a long-term rather than an immediate intervention.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Awareness of signs and symptoms is important, but routine evaluation of lithium levels is crucial for those taking lithium carbonate due to its narrow therapeutic range and potential toxicity.
B. Monitoring serum lithium levels is essential to ensure the medication remains within the therapeutic range and to prevent potential lithium toxicity.
C. Participating in therapy can be beneficial but might not be as critical as monitoring lithium levels for someone newly diagnosed with bipolar disorder.
D. While independence is important, the key concern here is the need for close monitoring of lithium levels due to the medication's potential side effects.

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