A patient has been prescribed intravenous (IV) famotidine.
Which observation would indicate to the practical nurse (PN) that the medication is having the desired effect?
Decreased nighttime awakenings.
Positive stool antigen test.
Loss of 3 pounds (1.36 kg) in a month.
Reduced epigastric pain.
The Correct Answer is D
Choice A rationale
Famotidine is a type of medication known as an H2 blocker, which decreases the amount of
acid produced in the stomach. While it can indirectly lead to better sleep by reducing
discomfort, decreased nighttime awakenings is not a direct indicator of its effectiveness.
Choice B rationale
A positive stool antigen test is used to detect the presence of certain bacteria in the
gastrointestinal tract. It is not directly related to the action of famotidine.
Choice C rationale
Weight loss is not a typical result of famotidine use. If a patient experiences significant weight
loss, other causes should be investigated.
Choice D rationale
Famotidine is used to treat conditions like ulcers, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and
conditions where the stomach produces too much acid, like Zollinger-Ellison syndrome.
Reduced epigastric pain indicates that the medication is effectively reducing stomach acid and
therefore, alleviating symptoms.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
If a patient’s pain level remains high despite receiving regular doses of fentanyl, it may indicate
that the current dose is insufficient. The PN should report this to the healthcare provider, who
may decide to increase the dose.
Choice B rationale
While it’s important to continue monitoring the patient and assessing the pain level, this alone
may not be sufficient if the patient’s pain remains uncontrolled.
Choice C rationale
Non-pharmacological methods of pain control can be beneficial, but they are typically used in
conjunction with medication, not as a replacement for it when the pain level is high.
Choice D rationale
Informing the patient about the potential addictiveness of the medication is important, but it’s
not the most appropriate action to take in response to uncontrolled pain.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A rationale
Clearing the nose with a tissue prior to the instillation of nasal drops can help to remove
mucus and other obstructions, allowing the medication to reach the nasal passages more
effectively15.
Choice B rationale
Deep inhalation through the nose is not typically recommended prior to the instillation of
nasal drops. It could potentially draw the medication deeper into the nasal passages or into the
throat, rather than allowing it to remain in the intended area15.
Choice C rationale
Holding the breath temporarily is not typically necessary or recommended prior to the
instillation of nasal drops15.
Choice D rationale
the nasal passages, but it is not as effective or recommended as using a tissue to clear the
nose15.
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