A patient with a tracheostomy has difficulty removing excessive, thick mucus from the respiratory tract. The nurse expects that which drug will be ordered to aid in the removal of mucus?

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because the patient may not see a response from the medication for at least six months. The patient should continue taking the medication as prescribed and follow up with the provider regularly.

Choice B reason: This is correct because finasteride can cause birth defects in male fetuses if it is absorbed through the skin or ingested by pregnant women. The patient should wear gloves when handling the tablets and avoid contact with crushed or broken tablets.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because PSA levels will decrease while taking this medication. PSA stands for prostate-specific antigen, which is a marker for prostate cancer. The patient should inform the provider that they are taking finasteride before having a PSA test, as it may affect the results.

Choice D reason: This is incorrect because grapefruit juice does not interact with finasteride. However, the patient should avoid alcohol and other medications that may affect the liver while taking finasteride.

Choice A reason: This is incorrect because alendronate is not safe during pregnancy, as it may harm the fetus or cause birth defects. The client should inform the provider if they are pregnant or planning to become pregnant before taking this medication.

Choice B reason: This is incorrect because the client should not lie down for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate, as this may cause esophageal irritation, ulceration, or bleeding. The client should take alendronate with a full glass of water and swallow it whole, without chewing or crushing.

Choice C reason: This is incorrect because the client should not continue smoking while on alendronate, as smoking can worsen the bone loss and increase the risk of fractures. The client should quit smoking or reduce the amount of cigarettes they smoke.

Choice D reason: This is correct because the client should avoid alcohol with alendronate, as alcohol can also worsen the bone loss and increase the risk of fractures. Alcohol can also interact with alendronate and cause side effects, such as stomach upset, drowsiness, or liver damage.

Choice E reason: This is correct because the client should sit up for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate, as this can prevent the medication from refluxing back into the esophagus and causing irritation, ulceration, or bleeding. The client should also avoid eating or drinking anything other than water for at least 30 minutes after taking alendronate, as this can reduce its absorption and effectiveness.