A nurse is caring for a client who reports difficulty breathing during the administration of an intermittent IV bolus of nafcillin. After stopping the infusion and notifying the provider, the nurse should anticipate a prescription for which of the following medications?
Deferoxamine
Vitamin K
Epinephrine
Prednisone
The Correct Answer is C
A. Deferoxamine. Deferoxamine is a chelating agent used to treat iron overload or toxicity. It has no role in managing an acute allergic reaction or respiratory distress caused by nafcillin, a penicillin-type antibiotic.
B. Vitamin K. Vitamin K is used to reverse the effects of warfarin-induced anticoagulation and is not indicated for treating an allergic reaction. Anaphylaxis is not related to coagulation disturbances, making this an inappropriate intervention.
C. Epinephrine. Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, which can present with difficulty breathing, bronchospasm, and hypotension. It works by stimulating alpha- and beta-adrenergic receptors, leading to bronchodilation, increased cardiac output, and vasoconstriction to counteract severe allergic reactions. Immediate administration is necessary to prevent further airway compromise and circulatory collapse.
D. Prednisone. Prednisone is a corticosteroid used to reduce inflammation and prevent delayed allergic reactions. While it may be prescribed as part of long-term management, it does not provide the rapid bronchodilation and vasoconstriction needed for emergency treatment of anaphylaxis.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Hypoglycemia. Neither spironolactone nor lisinopril directly affects blood glucose levels. Hypoglycemia is more commonly associated with insulin, sulfonylureas (e.g., glipizide), and excessive alcohol consumption, rather than potassium-sparing diuretics or ACE inhibitors.
B. Hyperkalemia. Spironolactone is a potassium-sparing diuretic that promotes sodium excretion while retaining potassium, increasing the risk of hyperkalemia. Lisinopril, an ACE inhibitor, also raises potassium levels by reducing aldosterone secretion, which normally promotes potassium excretion. The combination of these two medications significantly increases the risk of dangerously high potassium levels, which can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, muscle weakness, and life-threatening complications. Clients should have serum potassium levels monitored regularly and be advised to avoid potassium-rich foods and supplements.
C. Hyperglycemia. Neither medication is known to cause hyperglycemia. Thiazide and loop diuretics are more likely to elevate blood glucose levels due to their effects on insulin sensitivity, but spironolactone and lisinopril do not share this effect.
D. Hypokalemia. Spironolactone prevents potassium loss, and lisinopril reduces potassium excretion, making hypokalemia unlikely. Hypokalemia is more commonly seen with loop diuretics (e.g., furosemide) and thiazide diuretics (e.g., hydrochlorothiazide), which promote potassium loss.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. "Limit potassium-containing foods in your diet." Long-term prednisone use can lead to hypokalemia (low potassium levels) due to its mineralocorticoid effects, which increase potassium excretion. Clients on chronic corticosteroid therapy may actually need to consume potassium-rich foods to help maintain electrolyte balance, rather than restricting them.
B. "Withhold prednisone for 48 hours prior to receiving contrast dye." There is no general recommendation to withhold prednisone before contrast dye administration. However, clients on long-term steroid therapy may require stress-dose steroids if undergoing procedures that could trigger an adrenal crisis. Withholding prednisone without provider guidance could increase the risk of adrenal insufficiency.
C. "Measure your blood glucose levels periodically." Prednisone can cause hyperglycemia by increasing insulin resistance and promoting gluconeogenesis. Clients, especially those with diabetes or at risk for metabolic syndrome, should monitor blood glucose levels regularly to detect potential steroid-induced diabetes. Adjustments in diet or medication may be needed based on blood glucose trends.
D. "Take prednisone on an empty stomach." Taking prednisone on an empty stomach can increase the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, ulcers, and gastritis. It should be taken with food or milk to help reduce stomach irritation and minimize gastrointestinal side effects. Clients should be advised to follow this guideline to prevent discomfort and potential complications.
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