A nurse is reviewing medication prescriptions for a client. For which of the following entries on the client's medication administration record should the nurse request clarification?
Simvastatin 40 mg PO at bedtime
Morphine 4 mg IV every 4 hr PRN for pain
Levothyroxine 100 mcg PO every morning
Acetaminophen 500 mg every 4 hr PRN for fever
The Correct Answer is B
A. Simvastatin 40 mg PO at bedtime: This prescription is clear and specifies the medication (Simvastatin), the dose (40 mg), route (PO – oral), and timing (at bedtime). There is no need for clarification.
B. Morphine 4 mg IV every 4 hr PRN for pain: The need for clarification arises here because "PRN" (pro re nata) means "as needed," and prescribing an IV medication on an as-needed basis might need further clarification regarding the specific indications and circumstances for administering the medication.
C. Levothyroxine 100 mcg PO every morning: This prescription is clear and specifies the medication (Levothyroxine), the dose (100 mcg), route (PO – oral), and timing (every morning). There is no need for clarification.
D. Acetaminophen 500 mg every 4 hr PRN for fever: Similar to option B, there might be a need for clarification regarding the specific indications and circumstances for administering acetaminophen on an as-needed basis. However, in many cases, PRN for fever is reasonable, so it may not be as critical as in the case of an IV pain medication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
A. Cover the medication on the client's skin with a sterile gauze pad:
Nitroglycerin ointment is typically applied directly to the skin, and covering it with a sterile gauze pad is not a common practice. The ointment is absorbed through the skin.
B. Spread the medication over a 12.7 cm (5 in) area of the client's skin:
This is the correct answer. Nitroglycerin ointment is usually applied to a specific area of the skin, and the recommended area is often around 12.7 cm (5 inches). The nurse should spread the ointment evenly over this specified area.
C. Measure the dosage of medication using the applicator paper:
Nitroglycerin ointment is typically measured using a dosing strip or measuring paper provided with the medication. Using the applicator paper to measure the appropriate dosage is a common practice.
D. Apply the medication to the same site for three consecutive days:
Nitroglycerin ointment is often rotated to different sites to prevent local irritation or tolerance. It is not typically applied to the same site for three consecutive days.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A. Administer more than one pill to the client at a time: Administering more than one pill at a time may increase the risk of choking, especially for individuals with dysphagia. It's generally advisable to administer one medication at a time to ensure proper swallowing.
B. Tilt the client's head back when administering the medications: Tipping the head backward can increase the risk of aspiration (inhalation of medication into the airways). It is recommended to keep the head in a neutral or slightly forward position to facilitate swallowing.
C. Place the medications on the back of the client's tongue: Placing medications on the back of the tongue may trigger the gag reflex and increase the risk of aspiration. Medications should be placed on the front of the tongue to allow for better control and coordination of swallowing.
D. Mix the medications with a semisolid food for the client (Correct Answer): Mixing medications with a semisolid food, often referred to as "food thickening," can be beneficial for clients with dysphagia. This helps make the medications easier to swallow and reduces the risk of choking or aspiration. However, it is important to check with the healthcare provider or pharmacist to ensure compatibility with specific medications.
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