A nurse is reinforcing teaching with a client who is going to take an expectorant to manage a cough. The nurse should explain that this type of medication treats coughs by which of the following mechanisms?
Stimulates secretions
Suppresses the urge to cough
Reduces inflammation
Dries mucous membranes
The Correct Answer is A
A. Stimulates secretions: Expectorants work by thinning and loosening mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and clear out. This mechanism helps to reduce cough by facilitating the removal of mucus.
B. Suppresses the urge to cough: Cough suppressants, or antitussives, work by suppressing the cough reflex, not by stimulating secretions. This choice describes a different type of medication used for dry, unproductive coughs.
C. Reduces inflammation: Anti-inflammatory medications reduce inflammation, but they do not specifically target mucus production or the cough reflex. Expectorants do not primarily work by reducing inflammation.
D. Dries mucous membranes: Drying mucous membranes would typically be the action of antihistamines or decongestants, which are not the primary mechanism of action for expectorants. Expectorants aim to keep mucus hydrated to facilitate its removal.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Cetirizine (Zyrtec): Cetirizine is an antihistamine used to treat mild allergic reactions, such as seasonal allergies or mild hives. It is not the treatment of choice for severe allergic reactions like anaphylaxis, which this patient may be experiencing given the symptoms and history of peanut allergy.
B. Diphenhydramine (Benadryl): Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can be used for mild to moderate allergic reactions, including urticaria and mild anaphylaxis. While it may be part of anaphylactic treatment, it is not the primary treatment for severe symptoms like difficulty breathing.
C. Guaifenesin: Guaifenesin is an expectorant used to relieve chest congestion and make coughs more productive. It is not appropriate for treating allergic reactions or respiratory distress related to anaphylaxis.
D. Epinephrine: Epinephrine is the first-line treatment for anaphylaxis, which is a severe and potentially life-threatening allergic reaction. It works by rapidly reducing airway swelling, improving breathing, and stabilizing blood pressure. Given the patient's symptoms and history of peanut allergy, epinephrine is the most appropriate medication.
Correct Answer is ["E"]
Explanation
A. Hyperthyroidism: Decongestants can stimulate the sympathetic nervous system, potentially increasing heart rate and blood pressure, which may worsen symptoms in individuals with hyperthyroidism.
B. Heart disease: Decongestants can cause vasoconstriction, increasing the workload on the heart and exacerbating conditions like coronary artery disease and heart failure.
C. Hypertension: Decongestants can raise blood pressure due to vasoconstriction, posing a risk for patients with pre-existing hypertension.
D. Diabetes: Some decongestants can influence blood glucose levels and interfere with diabetes management. They can also increase blood pressure, which is a concern for diabetic patients with hypertension.
E. Allergic rhinitis: Decongestants are commonly used to alleviate nasal congestion associated with allergic rhinitis. They are not contraindicated for this condition and, in fact, are a typical treatment option.
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