A nurse is caring for a patient who experiences severe cluster headaches.
At what point in the course of a new headache should the patient be instructed to take medications?

Twenty to thirty minutes after the onset of symptoms.

As soon as the patient senses the onset of the symptoms.

As soon as the patient’s pain becomes unbearable.

When the patient senses their symptoms are peaking.

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is B

Choice B rationale
Patients who experience severe cluster headaches should be instructed to take medications as soon as they sense the onset of symptoms. Cluster headaches are characterized by severe, debilitating pain that reaches peak intensity within a short period of time, often within 15 minutes. Therefore, early intervention is crucial to manage the pain effectively.
Choice A rationale

Waiting twenty to thirty minutes after the onset of symptoms to take medications may not be effective for cluster headaches. The pain of a cluster headache often reaches peak intensity within 15 minutes, so delaying medication could result in unnecessary suffering.
Choice C rationale
Waiting until the patient’s pain becomes unbearable is not recommended for managing cluster headaches. The goal of treatment is to prevent or reduce pain, not to wait until it becomes unbearable.
Choice D rationale
Taking medications when the patient senses their symptoms are peaking is not the most effective strategy for managing cluster headaches. Given the rapid onset and severe pain associated with cluster headaches, medications should be taken as soon as the patient senses the onset of symptoms.

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Correct Answer is A

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Triptans, a class of medications commonly used to treat migraines, can cause vasoconstriction, or narrowing of the blood vessels. This can be problematic for patients with angina, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the heart. Vasoconstriction could potentially exacerbate this condition, leading to an increased risk of a heart attack. Therefore, the use of triptans may be contraindicated in patients with angina.

Choice B rationale
While asthma is a serious condition that requires careful management, it is not typically considered a contraindication for the use of triptans. Triptans work primarily on the blood vessels in the brain and do not typically interact with the bronchial tubes affected by asthma.
Choice C rationale
Age alone is not typically a contraindication for the use of triptans. However, older adults may have a higher risk of certain health conditions, such as heart disease, which could make the use of triptans more risky. It’s important for healthcare providers to consider the overall health status of the patient, not just their age, when deciding whether to prescribe triptans.
Choice D rationale
While stress can certainly exacerbate migraines, it is not typically a contraindication for the use of triptans. Triptans are designed to relieve the pain and other symptoms of migraines, regardless of their cause. If a patient’s migraines are triggered by stress, it may be beneficial to explore stress management techniques in addition to medication.

A. Introduce self after entering the patient’s room B. Use a firm, loud voice when addressing the patient C. Lightly touch the patient’s arm D. Provide instructions in clear, simple terms .

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

Choice A rationale
Introducing oneself after entering the patient’s room is a key aspect of effective communication with a blind patient. This helps the patient identify who is in the room with them.
Choice B rationale
Using a firm, loud voice when addressing the patient is not necessarily effective. While it’s important to speak clearly, raising one’s voice can come off as patronizing or disrespectful. It’s better to speak in a normal tone and adjust as needed based on the patient’s feedback.
Choice C rationale

Lightly touching the patient’s arm can be an effective way to gain their attention, especially if they may not have heard you enter the room. However, it’s important to ask for consent before touching the patient.
Choice D rationale
Providing instructions in clear, simple terms can be very helpful for a blind patient. This can help them understand what is happening and what they need to do.

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A nurse is caring for a patient who experiences severe cluster headaches. At what point in the course of a new headache should the patient be instructed to take medications?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is caring for a patient with a recent history of migraines. What aspect of this patient’s current status may contraindicate the safe use of triptans?

Correct Answer is A

Explanation

A nurse, during a shift report, learns that a patient under their care is blind. What actions by the nurse would demonstrate effective communication?

Correct Answer is ["A","C","D"]

Explanation

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A nurse is caring for a patient who experiences severe cluster headaches. At what point in the course of a new headache should the patient be instructed to take medications?

A nurse is conducting an assessment on a patient diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease. Which of the following symptoms is the nurse likely to observe?

A nurse is caring for a patient who experiences severe cluster headaches.
At what point in the course of a new headache should the patient be instructed to take medications?