A client with symptoms of influenza that started the previous day asks the clinic nurse about taking oseltamivir to treat the infection.
Which response should the nurse provide?
Explain to the client that antibiotics are not useful in treating viral infections such as influenza.
Advise the client that once symptoms occur it is too late to receive an influenza vaccination.
Refer the client to the healthcare provider at the clinic to obtain a medication prescription.
Instruct the client that over-the-counter medications are sufficient to manage influenza symptoms.
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
It is true that antibiotics are not effective against viruses like influenza. They only work against bacteria.
However, while providing this information to the client is accurate, it does not directly address the client's inquiry about taking oseltamivir, which is an antiviral medication.
It's essential for the nurse to guide the client toward the appropriate healthcare provider who can assess the client's condition and make an informed decision about whether oseltamivir is a suitable treatment option.
Choice B rationale:
While it is true that influenza vaccination is most effective when given before exposure to the virus, it is still a relevant consideration even after symptoms have begun.
Studies have shown that antiviral medications like oseltamivir can potentially reduce the severity and duration of influenza symptoms, even when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Therefore, simply advising the client that it's too late for vaccination without exploring other potential treatment options would be incomplete and potentially disadvantageous to the client's care.
Choice C rationale:
This is the most appropriate response because it ensures that the client receives a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plan from a qualified healthcare provider.
The provider can evaluate the client's symptoms, medical history, and potential risk factors to determine if oseltamivir is a suitable medication.
Additionally, the provider can discuss other potential treatment options, such as over-the-counter medications for symptom relief, and provide guidance on self-care measures to promote recovery.
Choice D rationale:
While over-the-counter medications can help manage some symptoms of influenza, such as fever, aches, and cough, they do not directly target the virus itself.
Antiviral medications like oseltamivir can potentially shorten the duration of the illness and reduce the risk of complications, especially in individuals at higher risk.
Therefore, relying solely on over-the-counter medications without considering antiviral therapy could potentially delay recovery and increase the likelihood of adverse outcomes.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A Colloidal oatmeal-based lotion: Colloidal oatmeal can help to reduce itching and swelling, all while hydrating the skin. It is often used to soothe irritated skin and can be incorporated into a skincare routine through oatmeal baths or oatmeal-infused moisturizers. However, it is typically used as a complementary treatment and may not be sufficient to manage psoriasis symptoms on its own.
B Topical corticosteroids: These are an essential tool for treating inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis34. They work by reducing inflammation and slowing down the production of skin cells, which helps to alleviate symptoms such as redness, itching, and scaling. Topical corticosteroids are often the first line of treatment for mild to moderate psoriasis.
C. Topical analgesics: These are primarily used to relieve pain. While they may provide some relief from discomfort associated with psoriasis, they do not address the underlying inflammation and rapid skin cell production that characterize this condition.
D Topical antifungal: Antifungal agents are typically used to treat conditions like seborrheic dermatitis and scalp psoriasis, or in areas where psoriasis involves folds in the skin, where there is an increased potential for localized infection. However, they are not typically used as a primary treatment for psoriasis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Deep breathing and coughing exercises are not a priority intervention immediately following eye surgery. They are more commonly used to prevent postoperative pulmonary complications, such as pneumonia or atelectasis, in patients who have undergone general anesthesia or have respiratory conditions.
While deep breathing and coughing exercises can help promote circulation and prevent blood clots, they are not directly relevant to protecting the eye after surgery.
Engaging in deep breathing and coughing exercises too soon after eye surgery could potentially increase intraocular pressure, which could strain the healing eye and potentially lead to complications.
Choice B rationale:
Obtaining vital signs every 2 hours is a standard nursing intervention for monitoring a patient's overall condition, but it is not the most immediate priority following eye surgery.
Vital signs can provide important information about the patient's heart rate, blood pressure, respiratory rate, and temperature, but they do not directly address the protection of the surgically treated eye.
While monitoring vital signs is important, it does not specifically address the prevention of injury or complications to the eye itself.
Choice C rationale:
Providing an eye shield is the most crucial intervention to protect the eye immediately following surgery. The eye shield serves several important purposes:
Protection from accidental injury: It prevents the patient from accidentally rubbing or bumping the eye during sleep, which could cause further damage or disrupt the healing process.
Prevention of infection: It helps to keep the eye clean and free from debris, reducing the risk of infection. Reduction of swelling: It can help to minimize swelling and discomfort by applying gentle pressure to the eye area.
Promotion of healing: By creating a dark and protected environment, the eye shield can promote rest and healing of the tissues.
Choice D rationale:
Teaching a family member to administer eye drops is an important intervention for long-term care, but it is not the most immediate priority following surgery.
The patient may be able to administer eye drops independently, or a nurse may be responsible for administering them in the initial post-operative period.
Focusing on teaching family members about eye drop administration right after surgery could distract from more urgent priorities, such as protecting the eye with an eye shield.
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