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

Answer and Explanation

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.

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Correct Answer is B

Explanation

A) Antihistamines:
Antihistamines are commonly used in the treatment of allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis. They work by blocking the effects of histamine, which is released during an allergic reaction, and can help alleviate symptoms such as itching, hives, and nasal congestion. Antihistamines are typically included in the treatment regimen for anaphylaxis but should not be relied upon as the sole treatment.

B) Vasodilators.
Vasodilators are medications that widen blood vessels, leading to a decrease in blood pressure. In the context of anaphylaxis, where blood pressure can drop precipitously due to systemic vasodilation, the use of vasodilators can exacerbate hypotension, potentially worsening the patient's condition. Therefore, vasodilators should be avoided in the management of anaphylaxis.

C) Corticosteroids:
Corticosteroids, such as prednisone or methylprednisolone, are used in the management of anaphylaxis to reduce inflammation and prevent late-phase allergic reactions. They are not typically used as first-line treatment during the acute phase of anaphylaxis but may be administered after initial stabilization to prevent recurrence of symptoms.

D) Bronchodilators:
Bronchodilators, such as albuterol, are used to relieve bronchospasm and improve airflow in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). While bronchospasm can occur during anaphylaxis, bronchodilators may still be used to address this symptom. However, they should be used cautiously, and their administration should not delay the administration of epinephrine, which is the primary treatment for anaphylaxis.

A. Treatment with PPIs to decrease stomach acid B. Treatment with stimulant laxatives C. Replacement therapy with pancreatic enzymes D. Decrease food intake

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Treatment with PPIs to decrease stomach acid:
Proton-pump inhibitors (PPIs) are used to decrease stomach acid production and are commonly prescribed for conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and peptic ulcers. However, they do not address the underlying cause of pancreatic insufficiency, which is the deficiency of pancreatic enzymes.

B) Treatment with stimulant laxatives:
Stimulant laxatives are used to stimulate bowel movements and are not indicated for the treatment of pancreatic insufficiency. Pancreatic insufficiency primarily affects the digestion of nutrients rather than bowel motility.

C) Replacement therapy with pancreatic enzymes.
Pancreatic insufficiency occurs when the pancreas does not produce enough digestive enzymes to properly digest food, leading to malabsorption of nutrients. Replacement therapy with pancreatic enzymes is the mainstay of treatment for pancreatic insufficiency. These enzymes, often prescribed in the form of pancreatic enzyme replacement therapy (PERT), help to supplement the deficient enzymes and aid in the digestion of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates.

D) Decrease food intake:
Decreasing food intake is not an appropriate treatment for pancreatic insufficiency. In fact, individuals with pancreatic insufficiency may need to increase their food intake to compensate for malabsorption and ensure adequate nutrition. Restricting food intake would worsen nutritional deficiencies and symptoms associated with malabsorption.

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After taking the medication guaifenesin (Mucinex), the client complains of coughing up phlegm. What is the best response by the nurse?

Nursing Test Bank

Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

In reviewing a plan of care for a patient exhibiting the symptoms of anaphylaxis, which of the following medications would be avoided?

Correct Answer is B

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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