A nurse is teaching the family of a client who has Alzheimer’s disease about donepezil. Which of the following information should the nurse include in the teaching?
“Syncope episodes may occur when taking this medication.”
“You will need to monitor for constipation.”
“This medication may cause tachycardia.”
“You should administer the medication each morning.”
The Correct Answer is A
Answer: A. “Syncope episodes may occur when taking this medication.”
Rationale:
A) “Syncope episodes may occur when taking this medication.”
Syncope (fainting) is a possible side effect of donepezil, a cholinesterase inhibitor used to treat Alzheimer’s disease. Donepezil can cause bradycardia, which may lead to a decrease in blood pressure and reduced blood flow to the brain, resulting in syncope. It's important for family members to monitor for episodes of dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness, particularly when the client changes positions (orthostatic hypotension).
B) “You will need to monitor for constipation.”
Constipation is not commonly associated with donepezil use. In fact, donepezil may cause diarrhea or gastrointestinal upset due to its cholinergic effects. Family members should be more concerned about potential gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea rather than constipation.
C) “This medication may cause tachycardia.”
Donepezil is more likely to cause bradycardia (a slower-than-normal heart rate) rather than tachycardia (a fast heart rate). Bradycardia is a known side effect because the medication increases acetylcholine, which enhances parasympathetic activity, leading to a slower heart rate.
D) “You should administer the medication each morning.”
Donepezil is typically administered in the evening before bed. This schedule helps reduce the risk of daytime gastrointestinal side effects, like nausea and vomiting, which can interfere with daily activities. Administering the medication at night can also reduce the impact of potential dizziness or syncope during the day.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["43.1"]
Explanation
Here's how we can find the dose:
Convert client weight to kilograms (kg):
We know 1 kg = 2.205 pounds.
Client weight (kg) = 95 lbs / 2.205 lb/kg = 43.1 kg (round to one decimal place for accuracy in calculation).
Calculate the enoxaparin dosage per dose:
Prescribed dosage: 1 mg/kg/dose
Client weight (kg): 43.1 kg (rounded value from step 1)
Enoxaparin dose per dose (mg) = Dosage (mg/kg/dose) x Client weight (kg)
Enoxaparin dose per dose (mg) = 1 mg/kg/dose * 43.1 kg = 43.1 mg (round to nearest tenth as requested)
Therefore, the nurse should administer approximately 43.1 mg of enoxaparin per dose.
Correct Answer is ["32"]
Explanation
Find the concentration of heparin in the solution:
Total heparin (units): 25,000 units
Volume of solution (mL): 500 mL
Heparin concentration (units/mL) = Total heparin (units) / Volume of solution (mL)
Heparin concentration (units/mL) = 25,000 units / 500 mL = 50 units/mL
Set up the flow rate equation:
Desired heparin infusion rate (units/hr): 1600 units/hr
Heparin concentration in solution (units/mL): 50 units/mL
Flow rate (mL/hr): We need to solve for this
Flow rate (mL/hr) = Desired heparin infusion rate (units/hr) / Heparin concentration (units/mL)
Calculate the flow rate (mL/hr):
Flow rate (mL/hr) = 1600 units/hr / 50 units/mL = 32 mL/hr (round to nearest whole number as requested)
Therefore, the nurse should set the IV pump to deliver approximately 32 mL/hr.
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.