A male client receives a scopolamine transdermal patch 2 hours before surgery. Four hours after surgery, the client tells the nurse that he is experiencing pain and asks why the patch is not working. Which action should the nurse take?
Check for correct placement of the patch behind the client's ear.
Explain that the medication is not given to prevent pain.
Advise the client that the effects of the medication have worn off.
Offer to apply a new transdermal patch to relieve the pain.
The Correct Answer is B
A) Check for correct placement of the patch behind the client's ear: While ensuring correct placement is important for the effectiveness of transdermal patches, the scopolamine patch is primarily used for motion sickness and nausea, not for pain relief. Checking placement does not address the client's pain, which is not the intended use of the medication.
B) Explain that the medication is not given to prevent pain: Scopolamine is used to prevent nausea and motion sickness, not to manage pain. The client’s pain is unrelated to the patch’s intended purpose. Educating the client about the medication's purpose and recommending appropriate pain management would address the issue effectively.
C) Advise the client that the effects of the medication have worn off: The scopolamine patch's effects for nausea or motion sickness would not typically wear off within four hours. The medication was not intended to address pain, so advising the client about its effectiveness for nausea rather than pain would be more appropriate.
D) Offer to apply a new transdermal patch to relieve the pain: Applying a new patch would not be effective for pain management, as scopolamine is not designed for pain relief. Instead, the focus should be on addressing the client's pain with suitable analgesics and explaining the purpose of the scopolamine patch.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Gastric irritation:
Gastric irritation is not a common side effect of gabapentin. While gastrointestinal symptoms can occur, they are not typically severe or indicative of a serious issue. Thus, this symptom is less critical to report immediately.
B. Rapid weight gain:
Rapid weight gain can be a significant side effect of gabapentin, potentially indicating fluid retention or other systemic issues. It is important to report this symptom, as it may require further evaluation and adjustment of the medication.
C. Sexual dysfunction:
Sexual dysfunction is not commonly reported with gabapentin. While it may affect some individuals, it is not typically a primary concern for discontinuing or altering treatment. Therefore, it is less urgent compared to other side effects.
D. Photosensitivity:
Photosensitivity is not a recognized side effect of gabapentin. The medication does not generally cause sensitivity to light, so this symptom is unlikely to be related to gabapentin use and is less critical to report immediately.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Explore what the client means by the drug "is not working":
The first step in addressing the client's concern is to understand their perception of how the medication is performing. This involves exploring their specific symptoms, any changes they've noticed, and their expectations of the medication. This understanding will help guide further assessment and intervention.
B. Determine if the client is taking the medication before meals:
Carbidopa-levodopa is typically recommended to be taken on an empty stomach to optimize absorption. While this is important for effective medication use, addressing the client's perception of the drug's effectiveness takes priority to identify whether there is an issue with their treatment regimen or if other factors are influencing their response.
C. Evaluate the client for signs of dyskinesia:
Dyskinesia, or involuntary movements, can be a side effect of long-term use of carbidopa-levodopa, but evaluating for these signs should follow the initial exploration of the client's concerns. If the client believes the medication is ineffective, it’s crucial first to clarify what symptoms they are experiencing before assessing for specific side effects.
D. Ask if the client's morning voids are dark colored:
Dark-colored urine is not directly related to the effectiveness of carbidopa-levodopa. This assessment is less relevant compared to understanding the client's overall experience with the medication and symptoms. Addressing the client’s concern about the medication’s effectiveness should be the priority.
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