A client asks the nurse about a prescription for the antihistamine, diphenhydramine (Benadryl). The nurse should teach the client that this medication is contraindicated in clients who have a history of which condition?
Asthma
Hypertension
Glaucoma
Depression
The Correct Answer is C
Choice A reason: Asthma
Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine that can cause drying of the airways and thickening of bronchial secretions, which might exacerbate asthma symptoms. However, it is not strictly contraindicated in asthma patients. Instead, caution is advised, and it should be used under medical supervision if necessary.
Choice B reason: Hypertension
While diphenhydramine can cause mild increases in blood pressure due to its anticholinergic effects, it is not contraindicated in patients with hypertension. Patients with hypertension should use it cautiously and under medical advice, but it is not an absolute contraindication.
Choice C reason: Glaucoma
Diphenhydramine is contraindicated in patients with glaucoma, particularly closed-angle glaucoma. This is because diphenhydramine has anticholinergic properties that can increase intraocular pressure, potentially worsening the condition. Patients with glaucoma should avoid using diphenhydramine to prevent complications related to increased eye pressure.
Choice D reason: Depression
Diphenhydramine is not contraindicated in patients with depression. However, it can cause drowsiness and sedation, which might affect mood and energy levels. Patients with depression should use it cautiously and under medical supervision, but it is not an absolute contraindication.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Open the client’s visual acuity using a Snellen chart is incorrect. This action assesses cranial nerve II (optic nerve), which is responsible for vision. The Snellen chart is used to measure visual acuity, not the function of cranial nerve VI
Choice B Reason:
Whisper none of the client’s ears while blocking the other is incorrect. This action assesses cranial nerve VIII (vestibulocochlear nerve), which is responsible for hearing and balance. Whispering tests the auditory function of this nerve.
Choice C Reason:
Ask the client to inspect up is correct. Cranial nerve VI (abducens nerve) controls the lateral rectus muscle, which is responsible for moving the eye outward. Asking the client to look up and outward helps assess the function of this nerve.
Choice D Reason:
Ask the client to smile is incorrect. This action assesses cranial nerve VII (facial nerve), which controls the muscles of facial expression. Smiling tests the motor function of this nerve.
Correct Answer is A
Explanation
Choice A Reason:
Mobilizes secretions is correct. Expectorants work by thinning and loosening the mucus in the airways, making it easier to cough up and expel. This helps clear the respiratory tract of mucus and other secretions, making the cough more productive.
Choice B Reason:
Suppresses the urge to cough is incorrect. This describes the action of antitussives, not expectorants. Antitussives work by suppressing the cough reflex, which is different from the mechanism of expectorants.
Choice C Reason:
Reduces inflammation is incorrect. While reducing inflammation can help with respiratory symptoms, it is not the primary mechanism of action for expectorants. Anti-inflammatory medications are used to reduce inflammation.
Choice D Reason:
Dries mucous membranes is incorrect. Drying mucous membranes is typically the action of antihistamines, not expectorants. Expectorants aim to increase the moisture in mucus to make it less sticky and easier to expel.
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