A nurse is preparing to administer cephalexin oral suspension to an older adult client who has difficulty swallowing pills. Which of the following actions should the nurse take?
Store the medication at room temperature
Avoid shaking the medication before administration
Check the client for a penicillin allergy
Monitor the client for constipation
The Correct Answer is C
A. Cephalexin oral suspension should typically be stored in the refrigerator to maintain its stability and effectiveness. Storing it at room temperature could affect its potency.
B. Shaking the oral suspension is necessary to ensure the medication is evenly distributed before each dose, providing the client with the correct dosage of active ingredients. Failure to shake the suspension can result in uneven dosing.
C. Cephalexin is a cephalosporin antibiotic, and there is a potential for cross-sensitivity in clients who are allergic to penicillin. Up to 10% of people with a penicillin allergy may also be allergic to cephalosporins. Checking for a penicillin allergy helps prevent an adverse reaction, making it a critical safety measure before administering cephalexin.
D. While some antibiotics can cause gastrointestinal side effects, constipation is not a common adverse effect associated with cephalexin. The nurse should instead monitor for other side effects like diarrhea, which is more typical with antibiotics and can indicate a mild side effect or a more severe condition, such as Clostridioides difficile infection.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","C","E"]
Explanation
The correct answer is choice b. The adverse effects of the medication., c. Written information about the medication., and e. The reason why the child is taking the medication.
Choice A rationale:
Stopping the medication when the child feels better is incorrect. It is important to complete the full course of antibiotics to ensure the infection is fully treated and to prevent antibiotic resistance.
Choice B rationale:
The adverse effects of the medication should be included in the discharge instructions. Parents need to be aware of potential side effects so they can monitor their child and seek medical attention if necessary.
Choice C rationale:
Written information about the medication is essential. This provides parents with a reference to review the medication’s purpose, dosage, and administration instructions.
Choice D rationale:
Using a kitchen spoon to administer the medication is incorrect. Kitchen spoons are not accurate for measuring medication doses. A proper measuring device, such as an oral syringe or medicine cup, should be used.
Choice E rationale:
The reason why the child is taking the medication should be included in the discharge instructions. Understanding the purpose of the medication helps ensure adherence to the prescribed treatment plan.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Mydriatic eye drops can cause systemic anticholinergic effects 1. Anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that transfers signals between cells to affect how your body functions 2. This can lead to side effects such as decreased digestion 2, which can result in constipation.
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