A male client tells the practical nurse (PN) that the pill he has been taking at home is a different color and size than the one the PN is trying to give him now. How should the PN respond?
Explain that the healthcare provider probably prescribed a different medication while he is hospitalized.
Tell the client that he is probably confused since being hospitalized tends to disorient clients.
Tell the client that the PN will verify that the dispensed medication is the valid prescription.
Explain that the pharmacy often substitutes generic equivalents for more expensive brands.
The Correct Answer is C
- Medication administration is a process that involves prescribing, dispensing, and giving medications to patients. It is a critical and complex task that requires accuracy, safety, and adherence to the rights of medication administration, such as the right patient, right drug, right dose, right route, right time, right documentation, and right response.
- When a male client tells the practical nurse (PN) that the pill he has been taking at home is a different color and size than the one the PN is trying to give him now, this may indicate a potential medication error
or discrepancy. A medication error is any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm. A medication discrepancy is any difference between the current and previous medication regimens of a patient.
- The PN should respond to the client's concern by telling him that the PN will verify that the dispensed medication is a valid prescription. This means that the PN will check the medication label, the medication order, and the medication administration record (MAR) to confirm that the medication given to the client matches the one prescribed by the healthcare provider. The PN will also compare the dispensed medication with a drug reference guide or a picture of the medication to ensure that it is the correct drug and dosage form. The PN will also report any suspected errors or discrepancies to the healthcare provider or the pharmacy for clarification or correction.
- Options A, B, and D are incorrect answers, as they do not reflect the appropriate or responsible actions for the PN to take when faced with a possible medication error or discrepancy.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Regular insulin is the medication of choice for treating DKA. Its main action is to lower blood glucose levels by promoting the uptake of glucose into cells and inhibiting the production of glucose by the liver. Therefore, checking the fingerstick blood glucose level is an important indicator of the effectiveness of the insulin treatment.
A decrease in the blood glucose level indicates that the insulin is working to lower the high blood sugar associated with DKA. This measurement helps the PN assess the response to treatment and adjust the insulin dosage if necessary.
The other actions mentioned are also important assessments in the care of a client with DKA, but they do not specifically evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage:
A. Smelling the client's breath for resolution of a fruity odor is important as it indicates a decrease in ketone production, which is a marker of improving DKA. However, it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
B. Determining the client's orientation to time and space is part of assessing their neurological status, which is crucial in managing DKA. However, it does not specifically assess the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
C. Measuring the client's urinary output for an increased volume is important to monitor hydration status and renal function, but it does not directly evaluate the effectiveness of the insulin dosage.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The most important intervention for the practical nurse (PN) to implement when applying an ice pack to a client is to secure a protective cover over the bag. This is essential to protect the client's skin from direct contact with the ice pack, which can cause tissue damage, frostbite, or discomfort.
Securing a protective cover, such as a thin cloth or towel, between the ice pack and the client's skin helps to create a barrier and prevent excessive cold exposure. It allows for the therapeutic benefits of the ice pack, such as reducing swelling and pain, while minimizing the risk of skin damage.
Incorrect:
A. While wrapping the bag in place for comfort is important, it is not the most critical intervention compared to ensuring the protection of the client's skin.
C. Giving directions to leave the pack in place is a general instruction for the client to follow the prescribed treatment, but it does not specifically address the importance of using a protective cover.
D. The type of ice used, whether crushed or cubed, may vary based on availability and preference, but it does not take precedence over the need to protect the client's skin with a cover.
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