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.
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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
A) Nighttime pain:
Nighttime pain, also known as nocturnal pain, is a symptom associated with both duodenal and gastric ulcers. It occurs when the stomach or duodenal lining is empty and no food is present to buffer the effect of gastric acid. While nighttime pain can occur in both types of ulcers, it is not more specific to duodenal ulcers compared to gastric ulcers.
B) Anorexia:
Anorexia, or loss of appetite, can occur in both duodenal and gastric ulcers due to factors such as pain, discomfort, and inflammation. It is not a symptom that is more commonly associated with one type of ulcer over the other.
C) Postprandial pain (occurring after a meal).
Postprandial pain, which occurs after a meal, is more commonly associated with duodenal ulcers than gastric ulcers. This pain typically occurs 2 to 3 hours after eating, as it is often triggered by the release of gastric acid and duodenal contractions stimulated by food intake. Duodenal ulcers tend to cause this type of pain because they are located in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine, which is exposed to gastric acid and bile after a meal.
D) Nausea and vomiting:
Nausea and vomiting can occur in both duodenal and gastric ulcers, particularly if the ulcer is accompanied by complications such as obstruction or perforation. These symptoms are not more specific to duodenal ulcers compared to gastric ulcers.
Correct Answer is D
Explanation
A) Sedation:
Sedation is not an adverse effect commonly associated with oxymetazoline nasal spray. Oxymetazoline works by constricting blood vessels in the nasal passages to relieve congestion and does not typically cause sedation.
B) Constipation:
Constipation is not an adverse effect associated with oxymetazoline nasal spray. Constipation is more commonly associated with medications that affect the gastrointestinal system, such as opioid analgesics or certain anticholinergic medications.
C) Productive cough:
Productive cough is not an adverse effect commonly associated with oxymetazoline nasal spray. Productive cough refers to a cough that produces mucus or phlegm and is more often associated with respiratory infections or chronic respiratory conditions.
D) Nasal congestion.
Oxymetazoline (Afrin) is a nasal decongestant spray commonly used for the temporary relief of nasal congestion associated with allergic rhinitis or the common cold. However, if oxymetazoline nasal spray is used for more than 3 to 5 consecutive days, it can lead to rebound congestion, also known as rhinitis medicamentosa. Rebound congestion occurs when the nasal mucosa becomes dependent on the medication for vasoconstriction, and upon discontinuation, nasal congestion worsens. Therefore, prolonged use of oxymetazoline nasal spray can result in a worsening of nasal congestion as an adverse effect.
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