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 D

Explanation

A) Montelukast:
Montelukast is a leukotriene receptor antagonist used for the long-term control and prevention of asthma symptoms, but it is not typically used as a rescue medication to abort an ongoing asthma attack. Its onset of action is slower compared to short-acting beta agonists like albuterol.

B) Fluticasone:
Fluticasone is an inhaled corticosteroid medication used for the long-term control and management of asthma symptoms by reducing airway inflammation and preventing asthma exacerbations. It is not used as a rescue medication to abort an ongoing asthma attack but rather as a controller medication to prevent symptoms when used regularly over time.

C) Cromolyn:
Cromolyn is a mast cell stabilizer medication that is used for the prevention of asthma symptoms and exercise-induced bronchospasm. It is not typically used as a rescue medication to abort an ongoing asthma attack but rather as a controller medication to prevent symptoms when used regularly over time.

D) Albuterol.
Albuterol is a short-acting beta agonist bronchodilator commonly used as a rescue or reliever medication for acute asthma symptoms or to abort an ongoing asthma attack. It works quickly to relax the smooth muscles of the airways, leading to rapid bronchodilation and relief of symptoms such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness. Albuterol is considered a first-line medication for relieving acute asthma symptoms and should be used as directed by a healthcare provider during an asthma exacerbation.

A. Stool softener B. Saline/osmotic laxative C. Stimulant laxative D. Bulk-forming laxative

Correct Answer is C

Explanation

A) Stool softener:
Stool softeners, such as docusate sodium, work by adding moisture to the stool, making it softer and easier to pass. They do not directly stimulate bowel movements or peristalsis through irritation of the bowel lining.

B) Saline/osmotic laxative:
Saline or osmotic laxatives, such as magnesium hydroxide (milk of magnesia) and polyethylene glycol (PEG), work by drawing water into the intestines, which softens the stool and increases bowel motility. They do not primarily act by irritating the bowel lining.

C) Stimulant laxative.
Stimulant laxatives work by directly stimulating the nerves in the intestines, which increases the rhythmic contractions of the intestines (peristalsis) and promotes bowel movements. These medications irritate the bowel lining, leading to increased motility and expulsion of stool. Examples of stimulant laxatives include bisacodyl and senna.

D) Bulk-forming laxative:
Bulk-forming laxatives, such as psyllium and methylcellulose, work by increasing the bulk and water content of the stool, which stimulates bowel movements. They do not directly irritate the bowel lining to promote peristalsis. Instead, they absorb water and swell in the intestines, creating a larger, softer stool that is easier to pass.

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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?

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Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams

A nurse is reinforcing teaching to a school-age child who has asthma. Which of the following medications should the nurse instruct the child to use to abort an ongoing attack?

Correct Answer is D

Explanation

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Correct Answer is C

Explanation

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