A nurse is educating a patient with osteoporosis who has been prescribed alendronate 70 mg PO weekly (Fosamax). Which statement by the patient indicates a need for further instruction?
“I take my other medications at least 30 minutes after my alendronate.”.
“I take my alendronate on the same day every week with an 8-ounce glass of milk.”.
“I sit up and read the morning paper after taking my alendronate.”.
“I will need to have a bone density test occasionally while taking this medication.”.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A rationale
Alendronate should be taken at least 30 minutes before the first food, beverage, or medication of the day with plain water only. This is because other beverages (including mineral water), food, and some medications are likely to reduce the absorption of alendronate.
Choice B rationale
Alendronate should not be taken with milk. This is because the calcium in the milk can bind to the alendronate, preventing it from being absorbed into the body and therefore making it less effective. This is why the patient’s statement indicates a need for further instruction.
Choice C rationale
After taking alendronate, the patient should not lie down and should remain fully upright (sitting, standing, or walking) for at least 30 minutes. This is to help alendronate reach the stomach more quickly and also to reduce the risk of irritation to the esophagus. Therefore, sitting up and reading the morning paper after taking alendronate is a correct practice.
Choice D rationale
Regular bone density tests are necessary while taking alendronate. This is to monitor the drug’s effectiveness in increasing bone mass and to adjust the treatment plan as necessary. Therefore, the patient’s statement is correct.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["167"]
Explanation
To calculate the rate for the infusion pump, you would divide the total volume by the total time, then multiply by the drop factor. Here’s how you can do it: Step 1 is: Calculate the total volume in mL, which is 1000 mL.
Step 2 is: Calculate the total time in minutes. Since there are 60 minutes in an hour, 2 hours is 120 minutes.
Step 3 is: Divide the total volume by the total time. So, 1000 mL ÷ 120 min = 8.33 mL/min.
Step 4 is: Multiply the result by the drop factor. If we assume a standard drop factor of 20 drops/mL, then (8.33 mL/min) × 20 drops/mL = 166.67 drops/min. So, the nurse should set the infusion pump to approximately 167 drops per minute. Vital signsVital signs Explore
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Avoiding intramuscular injections is not typically a component of patient education for iron deficiency anemia. Intramuscular injections do not have a direct impact on iron absorption or utilization.
Choice B rationale
Including orange juice when taking iron supplements is often recommended. The vitamin C in orange juice can enhance the absorption of iron, making it more available for the body to use. This is particularly important in iron deficiency anemia, where the body needs more iron to produce sufficient red blood cells.
Choice C rationale
Avoiding green leafy vegetables is not usually advised for patients with iron deficiency anemia. In fact, green leafy vegetables are a good source of iron and are often recommended as part of a diet for someone with this condition.
Choice D rationale
Avoiding live immunizations is not typically a part of patient education for iron deficiency anemia. The condition does not affect the immune response to vaccines, nor do vaccines interfere with iron absorption or utilization.
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