A nurse is planning to administer medications to an older adult client who has dysphagia. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Administer more than one pill to the client at a time.
Tilt the client's head back when administering the medications
Place the medications on the back of the client's tongue
Mix the medications with a semisolid fop for the client
The Correct Answer is D
A. Administer more than one pill to the client at a time: Administering more than one pill at a time may increase the risk of choking, especially for individuals with dysphagia. It's generally advisable to administer one medication at a time to ensure proper swallowing.
B. Tilt the client's head back when administering the medications: Tipping the head backward can increase the risk of aspiration (inhalation of medication into the airways). It is recommended to keep the head in a neutral or slightly forward position to facilitate swallowing.
C. Place the medications on the back of the client's tongue: Placing medications on the back of the tongue may trigger the gag reflex and increase the risk of aspiration. Medications should be placed on the front of the tongue to allow for better control and coordination of swallowing.
D. Mix the medications with a semisolid food for the client (Correct Answer): Mixing medications with a semisolid food, often referred to as "food thickening," can be beneficial for clients with dysphagia. This helps make the medications easier to swallow and reduces the risk of choking or aspiration. However, it is important to check with the healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure compatibility with specific medications.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. Visual disturbances:
Visual disturbances, such as blurred or yellow-tinted vision, are common signs of digoxin toxicity. Clients should report any changes in vision promptly.
B. Potassium 4.4 mEq/L:
While electrolyte imbalances, particularly low potassium levels, can increase the risk of digoxin toxicity, a potassium level of 4.4 mEq/L is within the normal range and, by itself, does not indicate digoxin toxicity.
C. Insomnia:
Insomnia is not a typical sign of digoxin toxicity. Symptoms of toxicity are more likely to involve the gastrointestinal and visual systems.
D. Sudden weight gain:
Sudden weight gain can be a symptom of heart failure exacerbation but is not a direct indication of digoxin toxicity. Other signs, such as visual disturbances, are more specific to digoxin toxicity.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Withhold the medication: An INR of 2.5 is generally within the therapeutic range for many conditions, including atrial fibrillation. Withholding the medication might lead to a decreased INR, potentially increasing the risk of clotting.
B. Decrease the dose of the medication: If the INR is above the therapeutic range (usually 2.0-3.0 for atrial fibrillation), the provider might consider decreasing the dose. However, an INR of 2.5 is within the typical therapeutic range, so a decrease in dose might not be warranted.
C. Increase the dose of the medication: An INR of 2.5 is generally within the therapeutic range for many conditions. Increasing the dose in this situation could elevate the INR further, potentially leading to an increased risk of bleeding.
D. Administer the current dose of the medication: Since the INR is within the therapeutic range, the nurse should expect the provider to maintain the current dose of warfarin. Adjustments to the dose might be considered if the INR deviates significantly from the target range.
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