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 C
Explanation
A. A five-pound weight gain could be significant but might not require immediate reporting unless it continues to increase rapidly.
B. A depressed affect is concerning but may not warrant immediate reporting unless it signals a severe change in the client's mental state.
C. Nausea and vomiting could indicate lithium toxicity, a serious side effect requiring immediate attention and evaluation by the healthcare provider.
D. Short-term memory loss can be a side effect of lithium but might not pose an immediate threat unless severe or rapidly worsening.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Urinary output might be important in some contexts but is not the priority related to the use of MAO inhibitors.
B. MAO inhibitors like phenelzine can affect blood pressure significantly; monitoring BP is crucial due to the risk of hypertensive crisis when certain foods or medications are taken.
C. Respiratory rate might be a consideration in some situations but is not directly affected by MAO inhibitors.
D. Temperature is not typically a primary concern related to MAO inhibitor use; blood pressure monitoring is more crucial due to potential interactions.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
