A nurse is caring for a client who taking benztropine to treat Parkinson's disease. The nurse should instruct the client to monitor and report which of the following side effects of benztropine?
Bradycardia
Excess salivation
Urinary retention
Diarrhea
The Correct Answer is C
A) Bradycardia:
Benztropine is an anticholinergic medication used to manage the symptoms of Parkinson's disease by blocking the action of acetylcholine. While anticholinergic medications can affect heart rate, bradycardia is not a common side effect of benztropine. In fact, benztropine may have the opposite effect, potentially causing tachycardia (increased heart rate).
B) Excess salivation:
Excessive salivation is typically a symptom of Parkinson's disease itself, due to difficulty swallowing, rather than a side effect of benztropine. In fact, benztropine, as an anticholinergic agent, generally reduces salivation (anticholinergic effect), so this side effect is unlikely to occur with benztropine therapy.
C) Urinary retention:
Benztropine, being an anticholinergic drug, can inhibit the action of acetylcholine at muscarinic receptors in the bladder, leading to urinary retention. This is a common and serious side effect of anticholinergic drugs like benztropine. Urinary retention can lead to discomfort, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney problems if not addressed.
D) Diarrhea:
Benztropine is more likely to cause constipation rather than diarrhea due to its anticholinergic effects. Anticholinergic medications often slow down gastrointestinal motility, leading to constipation.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) Administering oral antibiotics to a client with UTI:
Administering oral antibiotics is an appropriate task to delegate to a licensed practical nurse (LPN). LPNs are trained to administer medications, including oral antibiotics, and to monitor for common side effects or adverse reactions. Since the task is routine and does not require advanced clinical judgment, it can be delegated to the LPN under the nurse’s supervision.
B) Teaching a client with a new order for a renal angiogram:
Teaching a client about a new diagnostic procedure, such as a renal angiogram, requires advanced knowledge and clinical judgment to explain the procedure, its risks, and the necessary pre- and post-procedure care. This task is best performed by a registered nurse (RN) because it involves providing detailed patient education and addressing the patient’s concerns.
C) Evaluate the outflow of peritoneal dialysate:
Evaluating the outflow of peritoneal dialysate is a more complex task that involves assessing the effectiveness of the dialysis process and identifying any potential complications (e.g., infection, leakage). This task requires clinical expertise in dialysis and the ability to interpret changes in the output. Although LPNs may assist in monitoring the process, it is ultimately the RN’s responsibility to evaluate the outcome, interpret any changes, and intervene if necessary.
D) Assess a client with flank pain due to glomerulonephritis:
Assessment of a client with flank pain related to glomerulonephritis requires a thorough evaluation of the client's condition, including understanding the potential causes of pain and monitoring for complications such as renal failure or infection. This type of assessment requires critical thinking and clinical judgment, making it the responsibility of the RN.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A) The UAP stands by the patient's bed for 60 minutes talking with the patient:
This action requires immediate intervention because of the potential radiation exposure to the UAP. A temporary radioactive cervical implant involves placing a radioactive source in or near the patient's cervix. This implant emits radiation, and safety precautions are essential to limit exposure to others, including healthcare workers. Prolonged close contact, such as standing by the patient's bed for 60 minutes, increases the risk of radiation exposure to the UAP.
B) The UAP gives the patient a saline mouthwash to use for oral care:
There are no specific contraindications to using a saline mouthwash for oral care in patients with a radioactive implant. Saline mouthwash is commonly recommended for patients undergoing radiation therapy to soothe the mouth and prevent dryness or irritation. As long as the UAP is following standard infection control and safety precautions.
C) The UAP places the patient's bedding in the laundry container inside the client's room:
Bedding and linens from a patient with a radioactive implant can usually be handled and disposed of according to hospital guidelines for radioactive waste. Often, these linens are not considered to pose a significant radiation hazard after removal from the patient’s immediate area, especially if the patient is not emitting radiation outside the prescribed safety guidelines.
D) The UAP flushes the toilet twice after emptying the patient's bedpan:
After the patient has a radioactive implant, any bodily waste (urine, stool) can potentially contain small amounts of radiation. Flushing the toilet twice helps to ensure that any radioactive materials are effectively cleared. However, the UAP should be instructed to wear gloves and take other precautions to prevent contamination while handling the bedpan and ensuring proper disposal of waste.
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