A nurse is collecting data from a client who received levalbuterol 30 min ago.
Which of the following findings should the nurse identify as a therapeutic effect of the medication?

Choice A rationale:

Consulting a pharmaceutical sales representative is not the best option. While they are knowledgeable about the medications they promote, their primary role is to market their company’s products, and they may not have comprehensive information about other medications.

Choice B rationale:

While a nursing team member can be a valuable resource, they may not have the specific knowledge about the medication in question. It’s also important to remember that medication information can change frequently, and relying on another person’s knowledge may lead to errors.

Choice C rationale:

The client’s family can provide useful information about how the client has been taking the medication at home, but they are unlikely to have detailed pharmacological knowledge about the medication.

Choice D rationale:

A nursing drug guide is a reliable and up-to-date resource that provides comprehensive information about medications, including indications, contraindications, dosages, potential side effects, and interactions. Therefore, when unfamiliar with a medication, the nurse should consult a nursing drug guide.

Choice A rationale:

Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that is often used to treat allergies, insomnia, and symptoms of the common cold. It works by blocking the effects of histamine, a substance in the body that causes allergy symptoms. One of the effects of histamine is increased salivation, so when diphenhydramine blocks this effect, it can lead to dry mouth.

Choice B rationale:

Nausea is also a common side effect of diphenhydramine. This can occur because diphenhydramine can slow down the emptying of the stomach, leading to feelings of nausea. Additionally, diphenhydramine can affect the vestibular system in the inner ear, which can also lead to feelings of nausea.

Choice C rationale:

Agitation is considered an idiosyncratic reaction to diphenhydramine. An idiosyncratic reaction is an unusual or unexpected reaction to a drug that is not related to the usual pharmacological action of the drug. While diphenhydramine is typically used for its sedative effects, in some cases it can cause paradoxical central nervous system stimulation, leading to agitation.

Choice D rationale:

Dizziness is another common side effect of diphenhydramine. This occurs because diphenhydramine can affect the vestibular system in the inner ear, which plays a key role in maintaining balance. When this system is affected, it can lead to feelings of dizziness.