A nurse is teaching a client about taking an expectorant to treat a cough. The nurse should explain that this type of medication has which of the following actions?
Reduces inflammation
Dries mucous membranes
Stimulates secretions
Suppresses the urge to cough
The Correct Answer is C
Expectorants are medications that help to loosen and thin mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to cough up and expel. They work by increasing the production of respiratory tract secretions, which helps to hydrate and thin the mucus, making it less sticky and easier to clear from the airways. By stimulating the production and secretion of mucus, expectorants promote coughing and facilitate the removal of excess mucus and phlegm from the respiratory system.
It's important to note that expectorants are primarily used for productive coughs (coughs that produce phlegm or mucus). If the cough is dry and non-productive, other types of cough suppressants or remedies may be more appropriate.
Regarding the other options:
Reduces inflammation: Expectorants do not have a direct effect on reducing inflammation in the respiratory tract. Anti-inflammatory medications such as glucocorticoids are typically used for reducing inflammation in conditions like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Dries mucous membranes: Expectorants do not have a drying effect on mucous membranes. In fact, they work to increase the hydration and fluidity of respiratory secretions.
Suppresses the urge to cough: Expectorants do not suppress the urge to cough. They promote coughing by facilitating the clearance of mucus and phlegm from the airways. Cough suppressants, on the other hand, are medications used to relieve a dry, non-productive cough by suppressing the cough reflex.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["B","D"]
Explanation
The nurse should include the following information in the teaching about medication reconciliation:
● Provide a list of the client's current medications during admission to a healthcare facility.
● Provide a list of the client's current medications during the change of shift report.
Medication reconciliation is a critical process that involves comparing the medications a patient is currently taking with the medications ordered or intended to be prescribed. It helps ensure accurate and safe medication management during transitions of care. The nurse should emphasize the importance of providing a list of the client's current medications during admission to a healthcare facility. This information helps establish a baseline for the patient's medication regimen and allows healthcare providers to verify and reconcile the medications accurately.
Additionally, the nurse should instruct the class to provide a list of the client's current medications during the change of shift report. This allows for effective communication between healthcare providers, ensuring continuity of care and preventing medication errors or omissions.
While not specifically mentioned in the options, it is important to note that medication reconciliation should be performed at various points, including during the discharge process from a healthcare facility. Discharge medication reconciliation helps ensure a smooth transition to home or another healthcare setting, reduces the risk of medication-related issues, and promotes patient safety and adherence to the prescribed medication regimen.
Regarding over-the-counter medications, it is crucial to include them in the medication reconciliation process. Over-the-counter medications can interact with prescription medications and have potential side effects. Including them in the reconciliation report helps identify any potential interactions or duplications and ensures comprehensive medication management.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
This response demonstrates that the patient understands the dosing frequency (twice a day) and the importance of taking it with a full glass of water, which aligns with the instructions provided by the nurse.
The other choices are incorrect because:
A. "Taking this medication can cause me to develop a non-productive cough.": This response is about a potential side effect of the medication, rather than showing an understanding of the dosing instructions.
B. "I will take my medication Daily with a full glass of water.": This response indicates a misunderstanding of the dosing frequency, as the prescription specifically states "BID" (twice a day) rather than "daily."
D. "The medication will have to be given by my Home Health Nurse twice a day.": This response suggests a reliance on the home health nurse to administer the medication, which contradicts the instructions for the patient to take it themselves. It shows a misunderstanding of the patient's responsibility in self-administering the medication.
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