A nurse is reviewing the prescriptions for a client who is pregnant and is taking digoxin. Which of the following actions should the nurse take to best evaluate the client's medication adherence?
Ask the client if they are taking the medication as prescribed.
Determine the client's apical pulse rate.
Check the client's serum medication level.
Assess the client's kidney function.
The Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
While asking the client can provide some information, it relies on self-reporting, which may not always be accurate. Clients might forget doses, misunderstand instructions, or provide inaccurate information, whether intentional or unintentional. Therefore, this method is not the most reliable way to assess medication adherence.
Choice B Reason:
Digoxin can affect the heart rate, so checking the apical pulse is important for monitoring potential side effects, such as bradycardia. However, the pulse rate alone does not provide direct evidence of whether the client is taking the medication consistently or correctly. The pulse can be influenced by various factors and may not accurately reflect medication adherence.
Choice C Reason:
Checking the serum medication level provides an objective measurement of whether the client is taking digoxin as prescribed. This is a direct indicator of medication adherence and is particularly important for a medication like digoxin, which requires precise dosing to avoid toxicity or subtherapeutic effects.
Choice D Reason:
Assessing kidney function is crucial when managing a client on digoxin because impaired kidney function can lead to digoxin toxicity. However, this assessment does not directly measure whether the client is taking the medication as prescribed. It's more about ensuring the safe use of the drug rather than evaluating adherence.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
"Do your contractions feel further apart?" This question does not directly assess the effectiveness of the hands-and-knees position in rotating the baby or relieving discomfort associated with occipitoposterior position. It focuses on the timing of contractions rather than the impact of the position change.
Choice B Reason:
"Are you feeling relief from your pelvic pressure?" Pelvic pressure is more associated with the descending fetus and the overall labor process. The hands-and-knees position is mainly intended to alleviate back pain caused by the fetus's occipitoposterior position, rather than pelvic pressure.
Choice C Reason:
"Has your back labor improved?" The hands-and-knees position is often used to help alleviate back labor, a common issue with a fetus in the occipitoposterior position. The pressure from the fetal head on the mother's spine can cause significant back pain, and the hands-and-knees position can help by shifting the fetal position slightly and relieving some of this discomfort.
Choice D Reason:
"Does that lessen your suprapubic pain?" Suprapubic pain is more related to the pressure of the descending fetus on the bladder and the lower uterus. While the hands-and-knees position may alleviate some discomfort, it is primarily aimed at relieving back labor caused by the occipitoposterior position, not suprapubic pain.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Vaginal candidiasis is an infection that affects the vagina and does not directly contraindicate the use of a rectal suppository. However, if the suppository is intended for vaginal use, it may not be suitable in the presence of vaginal candidiasis due to the risk of exacerbating the infection.
Choice B Reason:
Afterpains refer to uterine contractions that occur after childbirth as the uterus returns to its normal size. Afterpains are not a contraindication to the use of a rectal suppository for constipation.
Choice C Reason:
Third-degree perineal laceration is correct. A suppository is a medication delivery system that is inserted into the rectum or vagina. In the case of constipation, rectal suppositories are often used to stimulate bowel movements. However, in the presence of a third-degree perineal laceration, the insertion of a rectal suppository could potentially worsen the injury or cause discomfort.
Choice D Reason:
Abdominal distention, or bloating, is a common symptom that may accompany constipation. It is not a contraindication to the use of a rectal suppository for constipation; in fact, relieving constipation may help alleviate abdominal distention.
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.
