A nurse is reinforcing discharge teaching about sublingual nitroglycerin with a client who has angina. Which of the following statements indicates an understanding of the instructions?
"I am going to take the medication with food.”
"I understand that the medication can slow my heart rate.”
"I should feel the effects of the medication within 5 minutes.”
"I will take the medication every 10 minutes until the pain goes away.”
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A rationale:
The statement about taking the medication with food is incorrect. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets should not be taken with food. They work much faster when absorbed through the lining of the mouth.
Choice B rationale:
The statement that the medication can slow the heart rate is incorrect. Nitroglycerin does not slow the heart rate. In fact, it can cause a reflex tachycardia, where the heart rate increases.
Choice C rationale:
The statement that the effects of the medication should be felt within 5 minutes is correct. This indicates an understanding of the instructions.
Choice D rationale:
Taking the medication every 10 minutes until the pain goes away is incorrect. Nitroglycerin sublingual tablets usually give relief in 1 to 5 minutes. However, if the pain is not relieved, a second tablet can be taken 5 minutes after the first tablet. If the pain continues for another 5 minutes, a third tablet may be used. Taking the medication every 10 minutes could lead to an overdose.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Ketorolac is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used for pain relief after surgery. However, it’s not typically administered every 3 hours. Overuse can lead to serious side effects.
Choice B rationale:
If the client’s pain level remains high after receiving ketorolac, administering an opioid medication like oxycodone may be appropriate.
Choice C rationale:
While acetaminophen can be used for pain relief, rectal administration is not typically the first choice for postoperative pain management.
Choice D rationale:
It’s inappropriate to label a patient as exhibiting drug-seeking behaviors simply because their reported pain level remains high after medication. Pain is subjective and should be addressed appropriately.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Choice A rationale:
Consulting a pharmaceutical sales representative is not the best option. While they are knowledgeable about the medications they promote, their primary role is to market their company’s products, and they may not have comprehensive information about other medications.
Choice B rationale:
While a nursing team member can be a valuable resource, they may not have the specific knowledge about the medication in question. It’s also important to remember that medication information can change frequently, and relying on another person’s knowledge may lead to errors.
Choice C rationale:
The client’s family can provide useful information about how the client has been taking the medication at home, but they are unlikely to have detailed pharmacological knowledge about the medication.
Choice D rationale:
A nursing drug guide is a reliable and up-to-date resource that provides comprehensive information about medications, including indications, contraindications, dosages, potential side effects, and interactions. Therefore, when unfamiliar with a medication, the nurse should consult a nursing drug guide.
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