A client with a cold is taking an antitussive medication. Which assessment information indicates to the nurse that the medication is effective?
                            
                                                                                                    Expectorating bronchial secretions.
Reports reduced nasal discharge.
Able to sleep through the night.
Denies having coughing spells.
The Correct Answer is D
A. Expectorating bronchial secretions: This outcome is more closely associated with expectorants, which loosen mucus in the airways. Antitussives, by contrast, suppress the cough reflex and are not intended to increase mucus clearance or productive coughing.
B. Reports reduced nasal discharge: Reduced nasal discharge is typically an effect of decongestants or antihistamines, not antitussive medications. Antitussives target the cough reflex, not nasal secretions.
C. Able to sleep through the night: While improved sleep may result from reduced coughing, it is a secondary and nonspecific outcome. The ability to sleep could be influenced by other factors such as overall symptom relief, not necessarily the effectiveness of the antitussive alone.
D. Denies having coughing spells: Antitussives are designed to suppress the cough reflex, particularly in cases of dry, nonproductive cough. A report of no more coughing spells directly reflects the intended therapeutic effect of the medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Take the medication an hour after antacids: Antacids can interfere with the absorption of cimetidine, so spacing them apart is a correct approach. This statement indicates appropriate understanding of medication timing and does not require further instruction.
B. Notify the healthcare provider (HCP) of lethargy: Cimetidine can cause central nervous system effects like confusion or lethargy, particularly in older adults or those with renal impairment. Reporting such symptoms is appropriate and reflects safe medication awareness.
C. Monitor for any signs of sexual dysfunction: Cimetidine has been associated with gynecomastia, decreased libido, and impotence in some cases. The client should be aware of and monitor for these potential effects.
D. Decrease cigarette use to a pack per day: Smoking impairs ulcer healing and increases gastric acid secretion, which can counteract the effects of cimetidine. Reducing to a pack per day is still harmful; the client should be encouraged to stop smoking entirely, not just cut back.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Evaluate muscle strength every 4 hours: While assessing muscle strength is important in clients with multiple sclerosis, it does not need to be done this frequently unless the client is unstable. Baclofen may cause weakness, but routine assessments every 4 hours are excessive for stable patients.
B. Advise the client to move slowly and cautiously when rising and walking: Baclofen can cause dizziness, sedation, decreased muscle tone and orthostatic hypotension, particularly in the early stages of treatment. Educating the client to change positions carefully helps reduce the risk of falls and injury.
C. Ensure the client knows to stop baclofen before using other antispasmodics: Baclofen should not be stopped abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms like hallucinations or seizures. Combining different antispasmodic medications can increase the risk of adverse effects such as excessive sedation or muscle weakness. Medication changes therefore should only be made under the supervision of the healthcare provider.
D. Monitor intake and output every 8 hours: Baclofen does not typically affect renal function or fluid balance significantly. Monitoring intake and output is not a standard intervention specific to baclofen administration unless there is another underlying condition.
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