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?
The patient has angina
The patient has a history of asthma
The patient is 75 years old
The patient’s migraines are associated with psychosocial stress
The Correct Answer is A
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
In the case of a major ischemic stroke, the medication that a nurse would anticipate the doctor to order is tissue plasminogen activator (tPA)8. This medication works by dissolving the clot that is blocking blood flow to the brain. It is most effective when given as soon as possible after the onset of stroke symptoms.
Choice B rationale
Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that is used to relieve pain and reduce inflammation. It is not typically used in the treatment of ischemic stroke.
Choice C rationale
Aspirin is an antiplatelet drug that is sometimes used in the prevention of stroke. However, it is not typically used as an immediate treatment for a major ischemic stroke.
Choice D rationale
Warfarin is an anticoagulant medication that is used to prevent blood clots from forming or growing larger. It is not typically used as an immediate treatment for a major ischemic stroke.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Myasthenia gravis is a neuromuscular disorder characterized by weakness and fatigue of voluntary muscles. Edrophonium is a medication that is used in the diagnosis and treatment of myasthenia gravis. It works by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transmits signals in the nervous system, thereby improving muscle strength.
Choice B rationale
Myasthenia gravis is not a disorder of motor and sensory dysfunction. It primarily affects the neuromuscular junction, leading to muscle weakness and fatigue. Sensory function is typically not affected in myasthenia gravis.
Choice C rationale
This statement is correct in that myasthenia gravis does not cause sensory impairment. However, it does not indicate an understanding of the disease as a whole, as it does not address the primary symptom of muscle weakness.
Choice D rationale
Myasthenia gravis does cause progressive muscle weakness, but it does not cause sensory deficits. Therefore, this statement indicates a partial understanding of the disease.
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.