Pancreatic enzymes are administered to the child with cystic fibrosis. What information should be included in patient education concerning the administration of these enzymes?
Administer pancreatic enzymes between meals if at all possible.
Pancreatic enzymes can be swallowed whole or sprinkled on a small amount of food taken at the beginning of a meal.
Do not administer pancreatic enzymes if the child is receiving antibiotics.
Decrease the dose of pancreatic enzymes if the child is having frequent, bulky stools.
The Correct Answer is A
The correct answer is choice A: Administer pancreatic enzymes between meals if at all possible.
Choice A rationale:
Administer pancreatic enzymes between meals if at all possible. This is the correct choice. When educating the parents and child with cystic fibrosis about the administration of pancreatic enzymes, it's important to emphasize that these enzymes should be given between meals whenever feasible. Administering them between meals, when the stomach is less acidic and less likely to release the enzymes prematurely, ensures optimal digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. This approach aligns with the physiological need to supplement pancreatic enzyme function due to the inadequate natural enzyme production in cystic fibrosis.
Choice B rationale:
Pancreatic enzymes can be swallowed whole or sprinkled on a small amount of food taken at the beginning of a meal. This choice is a valid option for administering pancreatic enzymes. While it's true that the enzymes can be taken either by swallowing the capsules whole or by opening them and sprinkling the contents on a small amount of food at the start of a meal, this method can vary based on individual preferences and abilities. However, the primary focus should be on timing (between meals) to achieve the best enzymatic action.
Choice C rationale:
Do not administer pancreatic enzymes if the child is receiving antibiotics. This statement is not accurate. There is no general contraindication to administering pancreatic enzymes while a child is on antibiotics. However, it's important for the healthcare provider to be aware of all the medications the child is taking to ensure there are no potential drug interactions or effects on absorption. Always consult with the healthcare team before adjusting the administration of any medication.
Choice D rationale:
Decrease the dose of pancreatic enzymes if the child is having frequent, bulky stools. This statement is not consistent with typical practice. If a child is experiencing frequent, bulky stools, it may actually indicate that the pancreatic enzyme dosage needs adjustment (increasing the dose rather than decreasing). Bulky stools can suggest poor digestion and absorption, which might require more enzymes to properly break down nutrients. Dosage adjustments should always be made under the guidance of the healthcare provider based on factors such as stool consistency, weight gain, and nutritional status.
Nursing Test Bank
Naxlex Comprehensive Predictor Exams
Related Questions
Correct Answer is B
Explanation
The correct answer is choice B. Epinephrine.
Choice A rationale:
Diphenhydramine. Diphenhydramine is an antihistamine commonly used to relieve allergic symptoms such as itching, rash, and runny nose. While it can be part of the treatment for anaphylactic reactions, it is not the medication of choice for immediate administration in the case of a severe anaphylactic reaction like the one described in the scenario.
Choice B rationale:
Epinephrine. Correct Answer. In cases of severe anaphylactic reactions, epinephrine (adrenaline) is the medication of choice for immediate administration. Epinephrine acts rapidly to reverse life-threatening symptoms, such as airway constriction, low blood pressure, and hives. It works by dilating airways, increasing heart rate, and improving blood pressure.
Choice C rationale:
Dopamine. Dopamine is a medication used to increase blood pressure and cardiac output in certain critical situations. However, it is not the first-line treatment for anaphylactic reactions. Epinephrine's effects on airway and cardiovascular function make it the preferred choice in this context.
Choice D rationale:
Calcium chloride. Calcium chloride is not the appropriate medication for treating anaphylactic reactions. Its main medical uses include treating hypocalcemia (low blood calcium levels) and certain cardiac arrhythmias. It does not address the primary symptoms and physiological changes associated with anaphylaxis.
Correct Answer is C
Explanation
The correct answer is Choice C: Measure abdominal girth.
Choice A rationale:
Taking vital signs, including blood pressure, is important in assessing the overall health status of a child, but it might not provide specific information about a probable intussusception. Blood pressure is not typically affected in a way that directly relates to intussusception.
Choice B rationale:
Auscultating for bowel sounds is an important assessment technique in various gastrointestinal conditions, but it may not be the most appropriate immediate action when dealing with a probable intussusception. While bowel sounds might be diminished or absent in intussusception, the priority should be on assessing other signs and symptoms.
Choice C rationale:
Measuring abdominal girth is an essential nursing action when a child with a probable intussusception has a normal, brown stool. Intussusception is the telescoping of one segment of the intestine into another, often leading to bowel obstruction. Abdominal distension or girth measurement can provide valuable information about the progression of the condition and potential obstruction.
Choice D rationale:
Notifying the practitioner is an important step, but it might not be the most immediate action required. Assessing and monitoring the child's condition should be the initial response to gather more information before notifying the practitioner.
Whether you are a student looking to ace your exams or a practicing nurse seeking to enhance your expertise , our nursing education contents will empower you with the confidence and competence to make a difference in the lives of patients and become a respected leader in the healthcare field.
Visit Naxlex, invest in your future and unlock endless possibilities with our unparalleled nursing education contents today
Report Wrong Answer on the Current Question
Do you disagree with the answer? If yes, what is your expected answer? Explain.
Kindly be descriptive with the issue you are facing.
