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
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.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Carbidopa itself does not cross the blood-brain barrier. Its primary role in Sinemet is to inhibit the peripheral breakdown of levodopa (the precursor of dopamine) into dopamine before it reaches the brain.
B. It is true that it may take a few weeks to see the full effects of this medication, as the body needs time to adjust to it.
C. Parkinson's disease is progressive, and as the disease advances, the dosage and frequency of levodopa with carbidopa may need to be adjusted to maintain symptom control. Over time, higher doses or additional medications may be required to manage symptoms effectively.
D. Levodopa does not protect Carbidopa; rather, Carbidopa protects Levodopa from early conversion to dopamine outside the brain, which would make it less effective.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. A client with myasthenia gravis who has bilateral ptosis and a positive edrophonium test is likely experiencing a myasthenic crisis, which is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. This client would be the priority because they may require rapid intervention to maintain airway and breathing.
B. Bell's palsy is characterized by sudden onset of facial paralysis due to inflammation of the facial nerve. While Bell's palsy can be distressing for the client, it does not typically require urgent intervention unless there are complications such as corneal abrasion due to inability to close the eye.
C. Parkinson's disease is a chronic neurodegenerative disorder characterized by motor symptoms such as tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia (slowness of movement), and postural instability. While this client requires ongoing assessment and care, the symptoms described do not typically indicate an acute or urgent need for intervention.
D. A client with multiple sclerosis who has bladder flaccidity and is retaining urine needs assessment and intervention to prevent complications such as urinary tract infections or renal damage. However, this is not as immediately life-threatening as a myasthenic crisis.
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