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
Explanation
Codeine is an opioid medication that can cause drowsiness and dizziness. Changing positions quickly, especially from lying down to standing up, can increase the risk of falls or accidents.
Instructing the client to change positions slowly helps prevent orthostatic hypotension (a drop in blood pressure upon standing) and reduces the risk of falls.
The other options listed are not appropriate instructions for a client taking codeine:
A. "You should expect to experience diarrhea while taking this medication." While constipation is a common side effect of opioids, diarrhea is not typically associated with codeine use. Therefore, there is no need to expect or warn about diarrhea as an anticipated effect of taking codeine.
C. "You should limit alcohol intake to 12 ounces daily." Mixing alcohol with codeine can have harmful effects, such as increased sedation and respiratory depression. However, it is generally recommended to avoid alcohol completely while taking codeine, rather than setting a specific limit of 12 ounces daily.
D. "You should take the medication on an empty stomach to prevent nausea." Taking codeine with or without food can vary depending on individual factors and the specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider. However, taking codeine on an empty stomach does not necessarily prevent nausea. In fact, taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset for some individuals. It is best to follow the specific instructions provided by the healthcare provider regarding the timing of codeine administration with or without food.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine, which is an antihistamine medication commonly used to relieve symptoms of allergies, including itching and rash. Chewing on sugarless gum or sucking on hard, sour candies can help stimulate saliva production and alleviate the discomfort of dry mouth.
A. "Administer the medication with food": While taking diphenhydramine with food may help reduce the risk of stomach upset, it does not directly address the dry mouth side effect.
B. "Discontinue the medication and notify your provider": Discontinuing the medication without consulting the healthcare provider is not recommended unless specifically instructed to do so. Dry mouth is a common side effect of diphenhydramine and can be managed with supportive measures.
C. "Place a humidifier at your bedside every evening": While using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air and potentially alleviate dryness in the environment, it is not a specific instruction for managing dry mouth caused by diphenhydramine.
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