A client with a history of anxiety and depression presents to the emergency department with a headache, nausea, and vomiting. The client's vital signs are temperature 100.9°F (38.3°C), heart rate 115 beats/minute, respirations 21 breaths/minute, and blood pressure 216/108 mm Hg. When reviewing the client's medications, which information is of most concern to the nurse?
Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg PO daily.
Phenelzine 60 mg PO daily.
Losartan 50 mg PO daily.
Aspirin 81 milligrams PO daily.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale: Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic and may contribute to electrolyte imbalances, but it is not the most concerning medication in this situation. Choice B rationale: Phenelzine is a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), and the combination of an MAOI with certain foods or medications containing tyramine can lead
to a hypertensive crisis. The client's elevated blood pressure is of concern, and the nurse should notify the healthcare provider.
Choice C rationale: Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat hypertension. While it may contribute to blood pressure control, it is not the most concerning medication in this scenario.
Choice D rationale: Aspirin, at a dose of 81 milligrams, is often used for cardiovascular prophylaxis and is not the most concerning medication in this situation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale: Administering an antianxiolytic medication may be appropriate, but addressing the client's fluid and electrolyte imbalance is the priority.
Choice B rationale: Inserting a fecal management tube is not the first action to take in response to hemoccult positive liquid stools; addressing fluid balance is more urgent.
Choice C rationale: Inserting a peripheral intravenous catheter is the priority to address the client's fluid and electrolyte imbalance and provide necessary hydration and medications.
Choice D rationale: Crushing pills and placing them in applesauce may be considered, but the client's fluid and electrolyte imbalance needs prompt attention first.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale:A. The drug that was ingested is the most important information because knowing the specific substance determines the course of treatment. For example, acetaminophen overdose requires administration of N-acetylcysteine, while opioid overdose requires naloxone. Different drugs have different toxic effects, antidotes, and supportive measures, making this information critical to providing appropriate and potentially life-saving care.
Choice B rationale: The time since drug ingestion is important because many interventions, such as gastric lavage or activated charcoal, are time-sensitive. However, without knowing the specific drug, it is difficult to determine whether these interventions are necessary or effective
Choice C rationale: Knowing the reason for the suicide attempt is important for overall assessment and treatment planning but may not provide immediate information for the current situation.
Choice D rationale: Past history of depression is relevant to the client's overall mental health, but in the context of a suspected drug overdose, the time since ingestion takes precedence.
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