A patient is prescribed Flexeril (cyclobenzaprine) for muscle spasms. Which of the following is the most common side effect that the nurse should educate the patient about?
Tinnitus
Drowsiness
Diarrhea
Palpitations
The Correct Answer is B
Choice A reason: Tinnitus is a rare side effect of Flexeril, which is a medication that relaxes the muscles and relieves pain and stiffness¹. Tinnitus is a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears that can be caused by various factors, such as ear infections, noise exposure, or certain medications. Flexeril does not affect the auditory system directly, but it can cause confusion or dizziness, which may worsen the perception of tinnitus.
Choice B reason: Drowsiness is the most common side effect of Flexeril, which is a medication that relaxes the muscles and relieves pain and stiffness¹. Drowsiness occurs because Flexeril has sedative and anticholinergic properties, which means that it blocks the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that regulates arousal and alertness. Flexeril can impair the mental and physical abilities, especially in elderly patients or those who take other medications that cause drowsiness¹. The nurse should educate the patient about the risk of drowsiness and advise them to avoid driving or operating machinery while taking Flexeril.
Choice C reason: Diarrhea is not a common side effect of Flexeril, which is a medication that relaxes the muscles and relieves pain and stiffness¹. Diarrhea is a condition that causes loose or watery stools, which can be caused by various factors, such as infections, food intolerance, or certain medications. Flexeril does not affect the gastrointestinal system directly, but it can cause dry mouth, nausea, or constipation, which may alter the bowel movements¹.
Choice D reason: Palpitations are not a common side effect of Flexeril, which is a medication that relaxes the muscles and relieves pain and stiffness¹. Palpitations are a sensation of rapid or irregular heartbeat, which can be caused by various factors, such as stress, anxiety, caffeine, or certain medications. Flexeril does not affect the cardiac system directly, but it can lower the blood pressure or interact with other medications that affect the heart rate, such as betablockers or antidepressants¹.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","D"]
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct. Dry mouth is a common side effect of anticholinergic drugs. It occurs because anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that stimulates the secretion of saliva and other fluids in the body. Dry mouth can cause discomfort, bad breath, and increased risk of dental problems¹.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Constricted bronchioles are not a side effect of anticholinergic drugs. In fact, anticholinergic drugs can cause the opposite effect: dilated bronchioles. This is because anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that causes the smooth muscles of the airways to contract. Dilated bronchioles can improve breathing and reduce wheezing in people with respiratory disorders, such as asthma or COPD.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Increased heart rate is not a side effect of anticholinergic drugs. In fact, anticholinergic drugs can cause the opposite effect: decreased heart rate. This is because anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that slows down the heart rate and lowers the blood pressure. Decreased heart rate can be beneficial for people with certain heart conditions, such as atrial fibrillation or tachycardia.
Choice D reason: This is correct. Dilated pupils are a common side effect of anticholinergic drugs. It occurs because anticholinergic drugs block the action of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that controls the muscles of the iris, which regulate the size of the pupils. Dilated pupils can cause blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty focusing.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A reason: This is correct. Constipation is a common side effect of aluminum hydroxide, as it reduces the motility of the gastrointestinal tract. The nurse should advise the client to report this symptom and to increase their fluid and fiber intake to prevent it.
Choice B reason: This is incorrect. Flatulence is not a common side effect of aluminum hydroxide. It may be caused by other factors, such as diet, swallowing air, or bacterial overgrowth in the intestines.
Choice C reason: This is incorrect. Headache is not a common side effect of aluminum hydroxide. It may be caused by other factors, such as stress, dehydration, or caffeine withdrawal.
Choice D reason: This is incorrect. Palpitations are not a common side effect of aluminum hydroxide. They may be caused by other factors, such as anxiety, heart problems, or medication interactions.
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