A nurse is caring for a patient who has been prescribed fentanyl patches for chronic cancer pain management at home. Which statement by the patient indicates that he understands how to use this medication safely?
“I will change the patch every other day.”
“I will apply the patch to a hairy area for better adhesion.”
“I will remove the old patch before applying a new one.”
“I will cut the patch in half if I need a lower dose.”.
The Correct Answer is C
The correct answer is choice C. The patient should remove the old patch before applying a new one to avoid overdose and adverse effects of fentanyl. Fentanyl patches are designed to deliver a constant amount of opioid analgesic over a period of time, usually 72 hours.
Therefore, changing the patch every other day (choice A) would result in inadequate pain relief and withdrawal symptoms.
Applying the patch to a hairy area (choice B) would interfere with the absorption of the drug and reduce its effectiveness.
Cutting the patch in half (choice D) would damage the integrity of the patch and cause erratic or rapid release of the drug, which could be fatal. Fentanyl patches should be applied to a clean, dry, hairless area of intact skin on the upper torso or upper arm.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A.Blurred vision is a common side effect of gabapentin and should be reported to the doctor.
Blurred vision can affect the patient’s ability to perform daily activities and may indicate a serious problem with the eyes or the brain.
Choice B is wrong because constipation is not a common side effect of gabapentin.
Constipation can be caused by other factors such as diet, dehydration, or lack of physical activity.
Choice C is wrong because dry mouth is a common side effect of gabapentin and does not usually require medical attention.
Dry mouth can be relieved by drinking water, chewing sugar-free gum, or using saliva substitutes.
Choice D is wrong because tinnitus is not a common side effect of gabapentin.
Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears that can be caused by many conditions such as ear infections, hearing loss, or exposure to loud noises.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
The correct answer is choice A) Respiratory rate: 10 breaths/min.This indicates that the patient may be experiencing respiratory depression, which is a serious adverse effect of buprenorphine and other opioids.
Respiratory depression can lead to hypoxia, brain damage, or death if not treated promptly.
The normal respiratory rate for adults is 12 to 20 breaths/min.
Choice B) Blood pressure: 110/70 mm Hg is wrong because this is within the normal range for adults, which is 90/60 to 120/80 mm Hg.Buprenorphine can cause hypotension as a side effect, but this is not evident in this case.
Choice C) Heart rate: 72 beats/min is wrong because this is also within the normal range for adults, which is 60 to 100 beats/min.Buprenorphine can cause bradycardia as a side effect, but this is not evident in this case.
Choice D) Temperature: 37°C is wrong because this is the normal body temperature for humans.Buprenorphine can cause hyperthermia as a side effect, but this is not evident in this case.
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