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 D
Explanation
The correct answer is choice d. I need to apply a sunscreen when I go outside.
Choice A rationale:
Taking over-the-counter antihistamines with dantrolene is not recommended because both can cause drowsiness and increase the risk of side effects.
Choice B rationale:
Dantrolene should be taken regularly as prescribed, not just when spasms are bad, to maintain consistent therapeutic levels and effectiveness.
Choice C rationale:
Muscle strength improvement with dantrolene may take longer than 2 to 3 days. It typically requires a few weeks to see significant benefits.
Choice D rationale:
Dantrolene can cause photosensitivity, making the skin more sensitive to sunlight. Therefore, applying sunscreen when going outside is important to prevent sunburn.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Timolol maleate (Timoptic) is a beta-adrenergic blocking agent that reduces elevated intraocular pressure by decreasing the production of aqueous humour in the ciliary body of the eye.
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