A nurse is caring for a patient who experienced a cervical spine injury 12 hours ago and is experiencing spinal shock. Which of the following medications should the nurse anticipate giving?
Albumin
Nitroprusside
Dexamethasone
Furosemide
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Albumin is a plasma expander and is typically used to restore blood volume in cases of shock, burns, or trauma. However, it is not specifically indicated for managing spinal shock. Albumin helps in maintaining osmotic pressure and fluid balance but does not directly address the underlying pathophysiology of spinal shock.
Choice B reason: Nitroprusside is a potent vasodilator used to manage hypertensive crises. It works by rapidly reducing blood pressure through vasodilation. In the context of spinal shock, where hypotension is a concern, administering nitroprusside would be inappropriate as it could exacerbate the hypotensive state and worsen the patient's condition.
Choice C reason: Dexamethasone, a corticosteroid, is used to reduce inflammation and edema around the spinal cord following an injury. The anti-inflammatory properties of dexamethasone help to mitigate secondary damage caused by swelling and pressure on the spinal cord tissue. It is commonly administered in cases of acute spinal cord injuries to improve neurological outcomes and manage symptoms of spinal shock.
Choice D reason: Furosemide is a diuretic used to manage fluid overload and edema. It works by increasing urine output, which can help reduce fluid retention in various conditions, such as heart failure and renal impairment. However, it is not specifically indicated for the management of spinal shock and does not address the underlying causes of spinal cord injury-related inflammation and edema.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: An increase in serum hematocrit indicates that epoetin has been effective. Epoetin, also known as erythropoietin, is a medication used to stimulate the production of red blood cells. In patients with chronic kidney disease, the kidneys may not produce enough natural erythropoietin, leading to anemia. By administering epoetin, the goal is to increase red blood cell production, which is reflected in higher hematocrit levels (the proportion of red blood cells in the blood).
Choice B reason: An increase in serum calcium is not related to the effectiveness of epoetin. Serum calcium levels are regulated by different mechanisms, including parathyroid hormone and vitamin D, and are not directly influenced by epoetin administration.
Choice C reason: A decrease in serum creatinine levels would indicate improved kidney function, but this is not the expected outcome of epoetin therapy. Epoetin specifically targets red blood cell production and does not have a direct impact on kidney function or creatinine levels.
Choice D reason: A decrease in blood pressure is also not an expected indicator of epoetin effectiveness. While managing blood pressure is important in chronic kidney disease, epoetin's primary role is to address anemia by stimulating red blood cell production. Blood pressure regulation involves other medications and interventions.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: Explaining that diarrhea is expected and that it is how the body gets rid of ammonia is accurate. Lactulose is often prescribed for patients with hepatic encephalopathy, and its purpose is to reduce blood ammonia levels by promoting bowel movements. Diarrhea is a common and anticipated side effect, as it helps eliminate ammonia from the body.
Choice B reason: Recommending Kaopectate for loose stools is not appropriate in this context. Kaopectate is an anti-diarrheal medication, and using it would counteract the effect of lactulose, which aims to promote bowel movements to reduce ammonia levels.
Choice C reason: Instructing the patient to stop taking the medication until stools firm up is incorrect. Lactulose should be continued as prescribed to maintain its therapeutic effect of reducing blood ammonia levels. Stopping the medication would negate its benefits and potentially worsen the patient's condition.
Choice D reason: Suggesting to send a stool specimen to the laboratory is unnecessary in this scenario. Diarrhea is an expected side effect of lactulose, and there is no indication that a stool specimen needs to be analyzed unless there are signs of infection or other complications.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.