A nurse is discussing the use of docusate sodium (Colace) with a client who is recovering from a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the rationale for administering this medication during the recovery from a myocardial infarction?

Treats hyperlipidemia to reduce the risk of new plaques

Prevents the formation of clots to reduce the risk of stroke

Prevents vagal stimulation to reduce e risk of dysrhythmias

Removes excess sodium to reduce the risk of hypertension

Answer and Explanation

The Correct Answer is C

A.   This statement refers to medications like statins (e.g., rosuvastatin, atorvastatin) which are used to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis progression. Docusate sodium does not treat hyperlipidemia or affect plaque formation directly.
B.   This refers to anticoagulant medications (e.g., heparin, warfarin, direct oral anticoagulants) which are used to prevent clot formation and reduce the risk of thromboembolic events such as stroke. Docusate sodium does not have anticoagulant properties.
C.   After a myocardial infarction (MI), especially in the early recovery phase, vagal stimulation can exacerbate bradycardia or contribute to dysrhythmias. Stool softeners like docusate sodium help prevent constipation, which can stimulate the vagus nerve during straining, potentially leading to vagally mediated dysrhythmias such as bradycardia or atrioventricular blocks.
D.   Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide) are used to reduce fluid retention and lower blood pressure by increasing urine output. Docusate sodium does not remove excess sodium or affect blood pressure regulation.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. PSA levels themselves do not indicate a gene mutation. Elevated PSA levels are primarily associated with prostate conditions rather than genetic mutations. While certain genetic mutations can predispose individuals to prostate cancer, PSA alone does not diagnose genetic mutations.
B. Elevated PSA levels can indicate the possibility of prostate cancer, but further testing is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Additional tests may include a digital rectal exam (DRE), imaging studies (such as ultrasound or MRI), and a prostate biopsy.
C. Elevated PSA levels can suggest prostate cancer, but they do not definitively diagnose it. Prostate cancer can only be confirmed through a biopsy that identifies cancerous cells in the prostate tissue.
D. BPH is a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate gland that commonly occurs in older men. While BPH can cause urinary symptoms similar to prostate cancer, elevated PSA levels are not typically associated with BPH alone. PSA elevation is more specific to prostate cancer but can also occur with other prostate conditions.

A. Limiting fluids during meals B. Influenza vaccination C. Pursed-lip breathing D. Using the tripod position

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A. This option is not directly related to preventing exacerbations in COPD. While managing fluid intake may be important for individuals with certain cardiovascular or renal conditions, it is not a recognized strategy for preventing COPD exacerbations.
B. Influenza vaccination is highly recommended for individuals with COPD. Respiratory infections, such as influenza (flu), can trigger exacerbations in COPD. By receiving an annual influenza vaccine, the client can reduce the risk of developing influenza-related exacerbations and complications.
C. Pursed-lip breathing is a breathing technique that can help improve ventilation and decrease the work of breathing for individuals with COPD. It can be beneficial during exacerbations or episodes of dyspnea (shortness of breath). While it does not directly prevent exacerbations, it is a useful technique to manage symptoms and potentially reduce the severity of exacerbations.
D. The tripod position, where a person leans forward with hands supported on their knees or another surface, can help COPD patients during exacerbations by allowing better chest expansion and improving breathing mechanics. It can relieve dyspnea and help stabilize breathing. While it does not prevent exacerbations, it is a helpful technique during episodes of increased respiratory distress.

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A nurse is discussing the use of docusate sodium (Colace) with a client who is recovering from a non-ST elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). What is the rationale for administering this medication during the recovery from a myocardial infarction?

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