A client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is receiving dicyclomine, an anticholinergic drug. Prior to administering the next dose, the practical nurse (PN) determines that the client's mucous membranes are dry, and the client reports having a dry mouth. Which action should the PN take

Check vital signs.

Notify the charge nurse.

Monitor hemoglobin.

Provide oral care.

Observe and report any ear drainage after removing the device.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is D

Dry mucous membranes and a dry mouth are common side effects of anticholinergic drugs like dicyclomine. These medications block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter responsible for stimulating secretions in the body. As a result, the client may experience dryness in various parts of the body, including the mouth.
Providing oral care, such as offering the client sips of water or providing a moistening agent for the mouth, can help alleviate the discomfort caused by dryness and promote oral hygiene. It is an appropriate and immediate intervention for the client's current symptoms.
Incorrect:
A. Checking vital signs may not directly address the client's dry mouth, but it is a good practice to assess the client's overall condition.
B. Monitoring hemoglobin would not be necessary in this situation, as it does not directly relate to the client's dry mucous membranes.
C. Notifying the charge nurse may be appropriate if the client's symptoms worsen or if there are other concerning factors, but the priority action in this case is to provide oral care to address the client's discomfort.

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

Choice A reason:

Administering the medication and alerting the charge nurse is not necessary in this scenario. The heart rate of 120 beats/minute is within the normal range for a 2-month-old infant, which is typically between 80 to 160 beats per minute. Therefore, there is no immediate concern that would require alerting the charge nurse.

Choice B reason:

Holding the medication and documenting the cardiac assessment would be appropriate if the heart rate were outside the normal range or if there were other signs of digoxin toxicity or adverse effects. Since the heart rate is within the normal range, this action is not warranted.

Choice C reason:

Administering the medication and documenting the heart rate is the correct action. The heart rate of 120 beats/minute falls within the normal range for a 2-month-old infant¹². Digoxin is prescribed to manage certain heart conditions, and as long as the heart rate is within the normal range and there are no signs of toxicity, the medication should be given as prescribed.

Choice D reason:

Holding the medication and rechecking the heart rate in 1 hour would be considered if the heart rate were borderline or if there were concerns about the stability of the infant's condition. Since the heart rate is stable and within the normal range, this action is unnecessary.

A. Report any drainage observed around the GT insertion site. B. Use plenty of pillows to position the client on the side after bathing. C. Keep the head of the bed raised while the tube feeding is infusing. D. Raise the entire bed while bathing the client to reduce back strain.

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A. Reporting drainage around the GT site is important for monitoring for infection, but it is not the most critical safety measure during the bath.
B. Using pillows to position the client can provide comfort and support, but it does not prevent a serious complication.
C. Keeping the head of the bed raised during continuous tube feeding is essential to reduce the risk of aspiration, which is a priority safety concern.
D. Raising the bed can reduce back strain for the UAP, but client safety takes precedence over staff ergonomics in this context.

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A client with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is receiving dicyclomine, an anticholinergic drug. Prior to administering the next dose, the practical nurse (PN) determines that the client's mucous membranes are dry, and the client reports having a dry mouth. Which action should the PN take

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

Prior to giving digoxin, the practical nurse (PN) assesses that a 2-month-old infant's heart rate is 120 beats/minute. Based on this finding, what action should the PN take?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

The practical nurse (PN) is providing instructions to the unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) preparing to give a total bed bath to an immobile client who has continuous feeding via a gastrostomy tube (GT). Which instruction is most important for the PN to emphasize?

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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