A nurse is providing teaching for a client who has a new prescription for alprazolam to treat insomnia. Which of the following instructions should the nurse include?
"Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving."
"Monitor for peripheral edema."
"Take this medication with a high-fat meal."
"Take this medication every night before sleep."
The Correct Answer is A
Alprazolam is a benzodiazepine medication commonly used to treat anxiety and insomnia. Here's the rationale for each option:
A. "Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving.": Alprazolam can cause drowsiness and impair cognitive function, so it's essential for clients to avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating heavy machinery, while taking this medication. Providing this instruction promotes safety and prevents accidents.
B. "Monitor for peripheral edema.": Peripheral edema is not a common side effect of alprazolam. This instruction is not relevant to the use of this medication.
C. "Take this medication with a high-fat meal.": Alprazolam can be taken with or without food, but taking it with a high-fat meal may delay its absorption. Therefore, it is not necessary to instruct the client to take it with a high-fat meal, especially since this may affect the medication's effectiveness.
D. "Take this medication every night before sleep.": While alprazolam may be used to treat insomnia, it is not typically recommended for nightly use due to the risk of dependence and tolerance. Using it nightly can lead to addiction and withdrawal symptoms if abruptly stopped. Therefore, this instruction is not appropriate.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. "I'll be glad when I can stop taking this medicine.": This statement indicates a misunderstanding about phenytoin therapy. Phenytoin is typically a long-term medication used to prevent seizures, and it is not typically discontinued unless under the guidance of a healthcare provider. The nurse should clarify that stopping the medication abruptly can lead to rebound seizures and should emphasize the importance of continuing the medication as prescribed.
B. "I have made an appointment to see my dentist next week.": This statement indicates appropriate understanding, as regular dental check-ups are important for individuals taking phenytoin due to the medication's potential side effect of gingival hyperplasia.
C. "I know that I cannot switch brands of this medication.": This statement demonstrates understanding, as different brands of phenytoin can have variations in bioavailability, which can affect seizure control. It is important for clients to remain consistent with the same brand or formulation unless directed otherwise by their healthcare provider.
D. "I will notify my doctor before taking any other medications.": This statement indicates understanding of the potential for drug interactions with phenytoin, as it is a hepatic enzyme inducer and can affect the metabolism of other medications. Clients should always consult their healthcare provider before taking any new medications or supplements to ensure compatibility with phenytoin therapy.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A. Prepare for gastric lavage due to an extremely elevated lithium level.
This option is incorrect. A lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L is within the therapeutic range for treating bipolar disorder or other mood disorders. Gastric lavage (stomach pumping) is not indicated for this level of lithium concentration.
B. Check the client's medication record to assess whether the client has been refusing her lithium.
This option is not directly relevant to the client's current lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L. While it's important to monitor medication adherence, the client's lithium level is within the therapeutic range, so there is no immediate concern about refusal or non-adherence.
C. Administer the morning dose of lithium.
This option is correct. With a lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L, which falls within the therapeutic range for treating bipolar disorder, the nurse should proceed with administering the morning dose of lithium as prescribed. It's important to maintain therapeutic lithium levels to effectively manage the client's condition.
D. Hold the medication and assess for early manifestations of toxicity.
This option is incorrect. With a lithium level of 1.0 mEq/L, there is no indication to hold the medication or suspect early manifestations of toxicity. Monitoring for lithium toxicity is important, but it's not warranted in this scenario where the lithium level is within the therapeutic range.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.