After taking the medication guaifenesin (Mucinex), the client complains of coughing up phlegm. What is the best response by the nurse?
This is normal.
This requires further investigation.
This is indicative of an allergic reaction
This means there is probably more pathology present
The Correct Answer is A
A) This is normal.
Guaifenesin is an expectorant medication commonly used to help loosen and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is an expected response and indicates that the medication is working as intended. Guaifenesin helps to clear the airways of excess mucus, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with respiratory conditions such as bronchitis or chest congestion.
B) This requires further investigation.
Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is a common and expected response and does not typically indicate a need for further investigation unless there are other concerning symptoms present. It is important for the nurse to provide reassurance and education about the expected effects of the medication.
C) This is indicative of an allergic reaction.
Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is not indicative of an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions to guaifenesin are rare but may include symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If the client were experiencing these symptoms, it would be important to assess further for a possible allergic reaction and intervene accordingly.
D) This means there is probably more pathology present.
Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin does not necessarily indicate the presence of more pathology. It simply indicates that the medication is helping to loosen and mobilize mucus in the airways, which is a normal response to expectorant therapy. If the client has concerns about their symptoms, further assessment by a healthcare provider may be warranted, but coughing up phlegm alone is not necessarily indicative of worsening pathology.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is ["A","B","E"]
Explanation
A. The inside surface of the lungs is small, and the dose is concentrated in that area: Inhalation medications are delivered directly to the lungs, where they are rapidly absorbed due to the small surface area and the close proximity of the medication to the lung tissue.
B. There is a large surface area inside the lungs: The lungs have a large surface area for gas exchange, allowing for efficient absorption of inhaled medications into the bloodstream.
C. Inhaled medications are given at very high doses: Inhaled medications are typically given at therapeutic doses appropriate for the patient's condition. While they may be given in higher doses compared to oral medications in some cases, the dosage is carefully adjusted based on factors such as the patient's age, weight, and severity of the condition.
D. Inhaled medications are given with food: Inhaled medications are typically administered separately from meals. Food can interfere with the absorption of inhaled medications and may affect their effectiveness.
E. There is a rich blood supply to the lungs: The lungs have a rich network of blood vessels, known as pulmonary capillaries, which allows for rapid absorption of inhaled medications into the bloodstream.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
A. This is normal.
Guaifenesin is an expectorant medication commonly used to help loosen and thin mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up. Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is a typical and expected response to the medication. Therefore, reassuring the client that this is a normal effect of the medication is appropriate.
B. This requires further investigation: Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is a common and expected outcome, so further investigation is not necessary unless there are other concerning symptoms or indications.
C. This is indicative of an allergic reaction: Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin is not indicative of an allergic reaction. Allergic reactions to guaifenesin are rare and typically present with more severe symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
D. This means there is probably more pathology present: Coughing up phlegm after taking guaifenesin does not necessarily indicate the presence of additional pathology. Guaifenesin is intended to help clear mucus from the airways and is commonly used in the treatment of respiratory conditions associated with excess mucus production, such as cough due to cold or bronchitis.
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