A nurse is preparing to administer nitroglycerin topical ointment to a client. Which of the following actions should the nurse plan to take?
Measure the dosage of medication using the applicator paper.
Spread the medication over a 12.7 cm (5 in) area of the client's skin.
Cover the medication on the client's skin with a sterile gauze pad.
Apply the medication to the same site for three consecutive days.
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A Reason:
Using the applicator paper is appropriate for measuring the dosage accurately, but simply measuring the dosage is not the only step; the medication needs to be spread over the specified area of the skin.
Choice B Reason:
Spread the medication over a 12.7 cm (5 in) area of the client's skin. Nitroglycerin ointment is typically measured using a specific paper or measuring tape provided with the medication to ensure accurate dosing. The ointment is spread thinly and evenly over a specific measured area of the skin, usually about 12.7 cm (5 inches) in length, to maintain consistent dosing.
Choice C Reason:
Covering the medication with a sterile gauze pad is not typically done with nitroglycerin ointment. The ointment is meant to be absorbed through the skin, and covering it may interfere with its absorption.
Choice D Reason:
Nitroglycerin ointment is often applied to different sites to prevent skin irritation and tolerance from developing at one site. It's usually rotated to different clean areas of the skin to prevent skin irritation and tolerance buildup. Applying it to the same site for three consecutive days is not standard practice.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Decrease the dose of the medication is incorrect. Lowering the dose could potentially drop the INR below the therapeutic range, increasing the risk of clot formation.
Choice B Reason:
Increase the dose of the medication is incorrect. Raising the dose might push the INR above the therapeutic range, increasing the risk of bleeding.
Choice C Reason:
Withhold the medication is incorrect. Withholding the medication might lead to inadequate anticoagulation and an increased risk of clot formation.
Choice D Reason:
Administer the current dose of the medication. An INR of 2.5 is within the therapeutic range for many indications, including atrial fibrillation. This means the blood is appropriately anticoagulated to prevent clot formation without an excessive risk of bleeding. In this scenario, maintaining the current dose of warfarin is often appropriate to sustain the desired therapeutic effect.
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Tinnitus, a perception of noise or ringing in the ears, is not typically associated with paroxetine use.
Choice B Reason:
Drowsiness or somnolence is a common adverse effect associated with paroxetine and many other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It's crucial for clients to be aware of this potential side effect, especially when starting the medication or adjusting the dosage. It might affect their ability to perform tasks requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
Choice C Reason:
Peripheral edema, or swelling in the extremities, is not a common adverse effect linked specifically to paroxetine use.
Choice D Reason:
Alopecia is correct. Alopecia, or hair loss, is not a commonly reported adverse effect of paroxetine.
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